Diaphragm

Question 1

What are the Arches of the Diaphragm and what goes through them?

Answer 1

1. Medial Lumbocostal Arch (Medial Arcuate Ligament): Psoas Major and Sympathetic Chain of Ganglia
2. Lateral Lumbocostal Arch (Lateral Arcuate Ligament): Quadratus Lumborum

Question 2

What are the Crura, where are they located, and what is their relative length?

Answer 2

1. Right Crus: Extends to L4, Longer than Left Crus
2. Left Crus: Extends to L2 or L3, Shorter than Right Crus
3. Median Arcuate Ligament: Meeting point of Left and Right Crus

Question 3

What is the innervation of the Diaphragm and what fibers are contained in it?

Answer 3

The Right and Left Phrenic Nerves from the Cervical Plexus (C3-C4), which contains all 4 fiber types

Question 4

What is the Aortic Hiatus formed by, where is it located, and what does it contain?

Answer 4

• Formed by: Right Crus, Left Crus, and Median Arcuate Ligament
• Located at the level of T12
• Contains: Descending Aorta, Azygous Vein, and Thoracic Duct

Question 5

Where is the Esophageal Hiatus located and what does it contain?

Answer 5

• Located at the level of T10

- Contains: Esophagus, Left and Right Vagus Nerves, and small Esophageal veins and arteries

Question 6

What is a Hiatal Hernia and what are the treatments for it?

Answer 6

• When the fascial connections between the Esophagus and the Esophageal Hiatus tear
• Treatment: Bland diet, Elevate head of bed, eat frequent, small meals

Question 7

Where is the IVC Foramen located and what does it contain?

Answer 7

• Located at the Level of T8

- Contains: IVC