Abdomen
The diaphragm separates the thorax from the abdomen. Structures that pass between the thorax and abdomen either penetrate the diaphragm or pass posteriorly to it : the inferior vena cava pierces the central tendon of the diaphragm to enter the right side of the mediastinum near vertebral level TVIII; the esophagus penetrates the muscular part of the diaphragm to leave the mediastinum and enter the abdomen just to the left of the midline at vertebral level TX; the aorta passes posteriorly to the diaphragm at the midline at vertebral level TXII; numerous other structures that pass between the thorax and abdomen pass through or posterior to the diaphragm.
Webster Dictionary Meaning
1. Abdomen
- The belly, or that part of the body between the thorax and
the pelvis. Also, the cavity of the belly, which is lined by the
peritoneum, and contains the stomach, bowels, and other viscera. In
man, often restricted to the part between the diaphragm and the
commencement of the pelvis, the remainder being called the pelvic
cavity.- The posterior section of the body, behind the thorax, in insects, crustaceans, and other Arthropoda.
Category: Medical & Health Sciences
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