Oesophagus

Question 1

At what point does the oesophagus cross the diaphragm?

Answer 1

T10

Question 2

What are the oesophagus’ anatomical relations and why is this important for imaging?

Answer 2

Posterior to trachea and left atrium of heart

Allows use of transoesophageal imaging of heart

Question 3

What forms the lower oesophageal sphincter?

Answer 3

Right crus of diaphragm - sling of muscle

Question 4

Where does the oesophagus start and finish?

Answer 4

Begins at lower laryngopharynx C6/7, upper oesophageal sphincter
Ends at stomach
25cm long

Question 5

What portion of the oesophagus is controlled by voluntary skeletal muscle?

Answer 5

Upper 1/3

Question 6

What are the complications of a hernia?

Answer 6

Incarceration - becomes stuck

Strangulation - Ischaemia of herniated structure

Question 7

What are two types of hiatus herniae?

Answer 7

Sliding: the gastroesophageal junction moves above the diaphragm with part of the stomach
Rolling: part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm without movement of the gastroesophageal junction

Question 8

Which veins form portosystemic anastamoses in oesophagus?

Answer 8

Oesophageal veins of left gastric vein - portal

Oesophageal veins of vena azygos - systemic