Diaphragm

Anatomy

Origin:
Xiphoid process, costal margin, lower six costal cartilages, ends of 11th and 12th ribs and lumbar vertebrae L1 to L3.

Insertion:
Central tendon of diaphragm.

Key relations:
-The inferior vena cava passes through the caval hiatus of the diaphragm at vertebral level T8.
-The oesophagus and vagus nerve pass through the oesophageal hiatus of the diaphragm at vertebral level T10.
-The aorta and thoracic duct pass through the aortic hiatus of the diaphragm at vertebral level T12.

Functions

Contraction of the diaphragm depresses the central tendon during inspiration, pushing the abdominal contents inferiorly and increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity.

Supply

Nerve Supply:
Phrenic nerve (C3, C4, C5).

Blood Supply:
-Pericardiacophrenic artery
-Musculophrenic artery
-Superior and inferior phrenic arteries.

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