Diaphragm

Musculus diaphragma

A musculotendinous dome-shaped partition separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities. It has sternal, costal, and lumbar origins converging on the central tendon. Three major openings transmit the aorta (T12), esophagus (T10), and inferior vena cava (T8).

Type Muscle
Body System Muscular
Body Region Thorax
Parent Structure thoracic segment muscle
Latin Name Musculus diaphragma
FMA ID 13295

Function

The primary muscle of respiration. Contraction flattens the dome-shaped muscle, increasing thoracic volume and creating negative pressure to draw air into the lungs during inspiration.

Clinical Significance

Diaphragmatic hernias allow abdominal organs to enter the thoracic cavity. Phrenic nerve paralysis causes diaphragmatic elevation. Hiccups result from involuntary diaphragmatic spasms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Diaphragm?
A musculotendinous dome-shaped partition separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities. It has sternal, costal, and lumbar origins converging on the central tendon. Three major openings transmit the aorta (T12), esophagus (T10), and inferior vena cava (T8).
What is the function of the Diaphragm?
The primary muscle of respiration. Contraction flattens the dome-shaped muscle, increasing thoracic volume and creating negative pressure to draw air into the lungs during inspiration.
What body system is the Diaphragm part of?
The Diaphragm is part of the Muscular.
What conditions affect the Diaphragm?
Diaphragmatic hernias allow abdominal organs to enter the thoracic cavity. Phrenic nerve paralysis causes diaphragmatic elevation. Hiccups result from involuntary diaphragmatic spasms.
Where is the Diaphragm located?
The Diaphragm is located in the Thorax region of the body.

Related Structures

anterior internodal tract anterior internodal fasciculus aponeurosis aponeuroses atrioventricular node A-V node Bachmann's bundle anterior interatrial band Biceps brachii Musculus biceps brachii bundle of His A-V bundle cardiac muscle tissue of myocardium cardiac Purkinje fiber cardiac Purkinje fiber

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