Transversus Diaphragm, Posterior View

Description

Posteriorly, the diaphragm is seen as a broad musculotendinous sheet spanning the inferior thoracic aperture, with the right and left crura descending from the anterolateral surfaces of the upper lumbar vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs. Medial arcuate ligaments bridge over psoas major on each side, while the lateral arcuate ligaments arch across quadratus lumborum to meet the lower ribs, tying the diaphragm to the posterior abdominal wall. The central tendon sits more anterior and superior, so the crural fibers and their decussation appear as the dominant midline feature. Surrounding bony landmarks include the thoracic and lumbar vertebral column centrally, ribs curving laterally, and the pelvis inferiorly. This posterior orientation matters when teaching diaphragmatic attachments and the mechanics of the crural sling around the esophageal hiatus, a common focus in discussions of hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Surgeons also work with these fibers during posterior cruroplasty and antireflux procedures, where identifying the right crus and its relationship to the vertebral bodies guides safe dissection close to the aorta and thoracic duct. Short, clear landmarks. The view also supports explanation of phrenic nerve motor supply (C3 to C5) in relation to diaphragmatic paralysis, even though the nerves themselves are not the visual emphasis from this angle. Use this plate in gross anatomy labs and respiratory physiology teaching to anchor posterior attachment sites, and in surgical education materials covering the esophageal hiatus, crural repair, and posterior approaches at the diaphragmatic hiatus. It also fits radiology and cross-sectional anatomy modules as a companion to sagittal and axial imaging that can obscure the crura’s continuity with the lumbar spine and lower ribs. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.