Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology

The Endocrine System 303

LABORATORY

The Endocrine System continued

EXERCISE:

2. When the skin is removed, you will see
   exposed muscles and glands. Notice the large
   lengthwise muscles of the neck region. These
   can be removed to expose the thymus gland.
   Refer to Figure 12-10 of a fetal pig dissection
   for a view of this region. The thymus gland
   appears spongelike as opposed to the thick
   cords of muscle tissue.


3. In the pig, the thymus gland is two large lobes
   located just below the cartilaginous larynx or
   voice box. Now push the two lobes apart with
   a probe or forceps to expose the

smaller, dark brown thyroid gland found on

top of the trachea. While here, note the tra-

chea with its cartilaginous rings.^

4. Once you have found these glands of the
   endocrine system, return your fetal pig to its
   storage area. We will use it again in future
   dissections.^


5. Your instructor may now show you a video-
   tape or DVD on the endocrine system. There
   are a number to choose from. An excellent
   videotape is “Homeostasis: The Body in
   Balance” by Human Relations Media, 175
   Tompkins Ave., Pleasantville, N.Y. 10570.

Thymus gland

Pericardial sac^

Cut rib cage

Lung Capacity.

Figure 12- 10 The throat and thoracic region of a dissected fetal

pig.

Larynx^

Trachea^

Thyroid gland

Heart (left ventricle)

Diaphragm^

The Liver

(^) ®
Learning
Cengage ©