Body Cavities, Mesenteries, and Diaphragm

  • Development of the thoracic diaphragm
    • Septum transversum – central tendon
    • Pleuroperitoneal membrane – muscular diaphragm
    • Lateral body wall – muscular diaphragm
    • Dorsal mesoesophagus – crura of the diaphragm
  • Developmental anomalies of the thoracic diaphragm
    • Bochdalek Hernia (Posterolateral defect of the diaphragm (Foramen of Bochdalek)
      • Defective formation and or fusion of the pleuroperitoneal membrane with the other three parts of the diaphragm resulting in a large opening in the posterolateral diaphragm
      • Most common on the left
    • Congenital Hiatal hernia
      • Herniation of the fetal stomach through the oesophageal hiatus
    • Morgagni hernia (Retrosternal/Parasternal hernia)
      • Herniation of the intestines or heart through the foramen of Morgagni into the pericardial sac or epigastrium respectively
    • Eventration of the diaphragm
      • Superior displacement of viscera into a sac-like diaphragmatic part due to defective musculature as the muscular tissue from the body wall fails to extend into the pleuroperitoneal membrane of the affected side
    • Accessory diaphragm
      • Most often on the right side and associated with lung hypoplasia and other respiratory complications
Dr. Jeffrey Kalei
Dr. Jeffrey Kalei

Author and illustrator for Hyperexcision. Interested in emergency room medicine. I have a passion for medical education and drawing.

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