Which structure traverses the diaphragm with the aorta?

Which structure traverses the diaphragm with the aorta?

• A. Thoracic duct
• B. Esophagus
• C. Azygos vein
• D. Splanchnic nerve

Answer: (A)

Structures passing through the diaphragm follow specific openings, and the aortic hiatus at the back of the diaphragm is the route for the aorta plus other elements that run with it. The thoracic duct is the major lymphatic channel that travels from the abdomen into the thorax and, at the level of the diaphragm, it goes through the aortic hiatus together with the aorta. From there it ascends in the posterior mediastinum and eventually drains into the left venous angle. The other options use different paths: the esophagus goes through the esophageal hiatus (with the vagus nerves), while the splanchnic nerves descend to the abdomen via the crura. The azygos system has its own course and does not uniquely travel through the aortic hiatus with the aorta.

Structures passing through the diaphragm follow specific openings, and the aortic hiatus at the back of the diaphragm is the route for the aorta plus other elements that run with it. The thoracic duct is the major lymphatic channel that travels from the abdomen into the thorax and, at the level of the diaphragm, it goes through the aortic hiatus together with the aorta. From there it ascends in the posterior mediastinum and eventually drains into the left venous angle.

The other options use different paths: the esophagus goes through the esophageal hiatus (with the vagus nerves), while the splanchnic nerves descend to the abdomen via the crura. The azygos system has its own course and does not uniquely travel through the aortic hiatus with the aorta.