Which of the following lymphatic structures is NOT typically evaluated for drainage in MLD?

The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body and plays a crucial role in lymphatic drainage, as it collects lymph from the lower body and the left upper body and drains into the venous system. However, when it comes to Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), therapists primarily focus on the more accessible and surface-level lymph nodes that are generally evaluated for drainage during treatment sessions.

The bilateral axillary nodes, bilateral inguinal nodes, and bilateral supraclavicular nodes are all critical components of the lymphatic system that are frequently evaluated and treated in MLD. These nodes are important for the drainage of the upper limbs and lower limbs, as well as the head and neck regions, making them more relevant to the techniques applied during MLD.

In contrast, while the thoracic duct is critical to lymphatic circulation, it is less commonly targeted directly in MLD practices because its location and the complexity of its drainage patterns make it less accessible for treatment. Additionally, MLD typically focuses on the peripheral lymphatic structures rather than deep lymphatic vessels like the thoracic duct, which necessitates a different approach in lymphatic therapy. Therefore, it is not typically evaluated for drainage in MLD sessions.