L3 Anatomy

A thin musculotendinous structure that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities.

The diaphragm has right and left domes; the right dome is higher due to the liver.

The diaphragm originates from the xiphoid process, lower six ribs, and lumbar vertebrae.

The crura are the muscle parts that arise from lumbar vertebrae; right crus from L1-L3, left from L1-L2.

A ligament connecting the medial borders of the crura across the aorta.

The diaphragm inserts into a central tendon fused to the pericardium.

An opening in the diaphragm at the 12th thoracic vertebra for the aorta, thoracic duct, and azygos vein.

An opening for the esophagus at the 10th thoracic vertebra, surrounded by muscle fibers.

An opening in the diaphragm at the 8th thoracic vertebra for the inferior vena cava and right phrenic nerve.

Motor supply from phrenic nerves; sensory from phrenic and lower six intercostal nerves.

Supplied by inferior phrenic arteries and branches from the internal thoracic artery.

The diaphragm contracts to increase the vertical thoracic diameter for inhalation.

The diaphragm aids in raising intra-abdominal pressure for micturition, defecation, and parturition.