Thoracic surface of the diaphragm

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The diaphragm is a large, dome-shaped, musculotendinous structure that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. Its muscle fibers originate peripherally and travel inwardly towards their insertion at the right and left central tendons. Contraction of this large muscle is vital for respiration, as it flattens the dome-like structure of the diaphragm and thus expands the thoracic cavity, allowing air to flow into the lungs.

The diaphragm is innervated by the left and right phrenic nerves, which arise from spinal nerves C3 to C5. There are a number of apertures, or openings, which allow structures to pass through the diaphragm and enter or leave the thoracic cavity. The three major openings are named after the structures that pass through them: the aortic hiatus, esophageal hiatus and caval foramen.

Watch the following video to learn more about the various features of the diaphragm as well as its anatomical relations to neighbouring organs:

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Browse atlas

Have another look at each of the individual structures associated with the thoracic surface of the diaphragm in the gallery below.

Summary