MP1124 - Hilum of the left lung

The hilum of a lung is the point at which visceral and parietal pleura meet and functions with the pulmonary ligament as the lungs only connection with the rest of the body. This connection includes the pulmonary artery, superior and inferior pulmonary veins, main bronchi, nerves and lymphatics. As the definition of an artery involves carrying blood away from the heart, this will be deoxygenated blood in the pulmonary system, in contrast with the systemic circulation. Similarly, veins carry blood toward the heart, meaning it will be oxygenated in the pulmonary system.