Gastrointestinal Assessment Questions Related

Review Gastrointestinal Assessment Questions related questions and content

Which structure is located where the esophagus penetrates the diaphragm?

  • A. esophageal hiatus
  • B. cardiac orifice
  • C. upper esophageal sphincter
  • D. lower esophageal sphincter
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: esophageal hiatus. This is the opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus passes, connecting the thoracic and abdominal cavities. The esophageal hiatus is specifically located at the level of the tenth thoracic vertebra. The other choices are incorrect because:
B: Cardiac orifice refers to the opening of the stomach into the esophagus, not where the esophagus penetrates the diaphragm.
C: Upper esophageal sphincter is a muscular valve at the upper end of the esophagus, not related to its passage through the diaphragm.
D: Lower esophageal sphincter is located at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, not at the point where the esophagus penetrates the diaphragm.