Diaphragmatic Openings — FRCA Primary MCQ
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Correct answer: E — T12
The correct answer is E: T12. The aortic hiatus lies posteriorly between the diaphragmatic crura, beneath the median arcuate ligament, and classically corresponds to T12. It transmits the descending aorta and thoracic duct; the azygos vein may also pass through it. T10 is the standard level of the oesophageal hiatus, which transmits the oesophagus and vagal trunks. T8 is the level of the caval opening in the central tendon for the inferior vena cava and a terminal branch of the right phrenic nerve. L1 and L2 lie below the classical level of the major diaphragmatic openings. The useful sequence is therefore: vena cava T8, oesophagus T10 and aorta T12.
Reference: Wright N, Burns B. Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis, Posterior Abdominal Wall Arteries. StatPearls, 2026 edition. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30422567/