Unit 3 - Thorax, Abdomen, Pelvis, and Perineum: Openings of Diaphragm (Ex. III)

Question 1

caval aperture (hiatus)

Answer 1

passage for IVC via central tendon @ T vertebral level

Question 2

esophageal aperture (hiatus)

Answer 2

opening @ T10 vertebral level for:
  - esophagus
  - A and P vagal trunks
  - left gastric a. and v.
usually formed by R crus of diaphragm --> forms sphincter around esophagus when contracted

Question 3

aortic aperture (hiatus)

Answer 3

passageway for aorta
between R and L crura as it passes behind diaphragm @ T12
thoracic duct and azygos and hemiazygos vv. also pass through

Question 4

purpose

Answer 4

allow passage of structures between thorax and abdomen