Oesphagus (Dave's notes - see also thorax)

Question 1

At what level does the oesophagus pass through the diaphragm? What holds it in position there?

Answer 1

T10, 2cm left of the midline, bound firmly by the phreno-oesophageal ligaments

Question 2

What nerves are closely associated here?

Answer 2

The anterior and posterior vagal trunks

Question 3

What is attached either side of the oesophagus?

Answer 3

Peritoneum is attached to the diaphragm. On the left is the greater omentum and on the right is the lesser omentum

Question 4

Where does the oesophagus enter the stomach?

Answer 4

At the cardiac orifice