Answer
There are three major openings in the diaphragm through which structures pass from the thoracic cavity to the abdominal cavity. These openings are the aortic opening ( hiatus), the esophageal hiatus, and the caval foramen.
1. The Aortic Hiatus
The structures that pass through the aortic opening are the descending aorta, the azygous vein, and
the thoracic duct.
2. The Esophageal Hiatus
The following structures pass through the esophageal opening: the esophagus, the right and left vagal
nerve trunks, small esophageal arteries, and gastric lymphatic vessels
3. Caval Foramen
The inferior vena cava, and terminal branches of the right and left phrenic nerves pass through the
caval foramen.
Work Step by Step
This last opening is in the central tendon) aponeurosis) of the diaphragm
