Syllabus · Current · V5 (2025) · Respiratory System
C1 · Anatomy of the Respiratory System
C1.i · Airways
Describe the structure and function of the upper and lower airways including the alveolus.
Written examination
SAQ history
Laryngeal Anatomy
3 exam appearances
Respiratory Anatomy — Alveolus
2 exam appearances
Tracheobronchial Anatomy
2 exam appearances
Describe the anatomical course and relations of the trachea and bronchial tree (to the level of the segmental bronchi).
24%
Outline the tracheal (60% of marks) and left and right main bronchial anatomy (40% of marks) in an adult.
14%
Tracheal Anatomy & Percutaneous Tracheostomy
1 exam appearance
a) On the diagram below, identify the anatomical structures labelled A-H (40% of marks).
b) Describe the structural anatomy of the trachea, excluding the anatomical relations (45% of marks).
c) Outline the ideal location for the insertion of percutaneous tracheostomy tube (15% of marks).
38.6%
Oral examination
VIVA history
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2024A · Day 1 · VIVA 5
This VIVA will examine respiratory anatomy and general pharmacology. This is a schematic diagram of the terminal respiratory unit. Please take us through the structures labelled from 1 to 5 and outline their functions? (Image removed from report.)
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2018A · Day 2 · VIVA 2
This viva will test your knowledge of alveolar ventilation and metabolism. In relation to respiration, describe the central chemoreceptors, and explain their role in the control of ventilation.
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2017B · Day 3 · VIVA 1
This viva is on the structure and function of the respiratory system and inhaled drug delivery. What is this structure and what are the key components? (Image removed from report.)
Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.