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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
05:51
Diaphragmatic Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation
Published on: January 31, 2025
Anatomy of the normal diaphragm
1Thoracic Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, C-871, New York, NY 10065, USA. downeyr@mskcc.org
Thoracic Surgery Clinics
|April 12, 2011
Summary
The thoracic diaphragm is a muscular septum separating chest and abdominal cavities. It facilitates breathing by expanding the chest and aids in gastroesophageal junction closure.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
Background:
- The thoracic diaphragm is a crucial muscular structure.
- It forms a boundary between the thoracic and abdominal cavities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the normal anatomy of the thoracic diaphragm.
Main Methods:
- Review of anatomical literature.
- Descriptive analysis of diaphragmatic structure.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of the diaphragm's dome shape.
- Identification of its muscular composition and central tendon.
Conclusions:
- The diaphragm's anatomy is essential for its respiratory and gastroesophageal functions.
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