Heart in situ (with pericardium) (Latin)

The heart (cor) is separated from other structures of the mediastinum by a double layeres fibroserous called called the pericardium. On its surface are important vessels which supply and drain the pericardium and diaphragm, known as the a./v. pericardiacophrenica. The right and left nn. phrenici, which innervate the diaphragma, course laterally on either side of the heart; these are clinically important since they can be damaged during surgical interventions to the heart.