Question
Which among the following passes with Aorta through the Aortic Opening of diaphragm?
| A. | Azygous Vein |
| B. |
Vagus Nerve |
| C. |
Thoracic Duct |
| D. |
Both A and C |
|
Correct Answer » D Explanation |
 |
The aortic hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm located at the level of T12 vertebra. It lies posterior to the diaphragm between the crura and therefore structures passing through it are not compressed during diaphragmatic contraction.
Structures Passing Through the Aortic Hiatus (T12)
- Descending aorta
- Thoracic duct
- Azygos vein
Hence, both the azygos vein and thoracic duct accompany the aorta through the aortic hiatus.
Option-wise Analysis
A. Azygos vein
The azygos vein passes through the aortic hiatus along with the aorta and thoracic duct.
B. Vagus nerve
The vagus nerves pass through the esophageal hiatus (T10) as the anterior and posterior vagal trunks.
C. Thoracic duct
The thoracic duct accompanies the descending aorta through the aortic hiatus at T12.