At the level of the T10 vertebra, the diaphragm is pierced by the oesophageal opening. Which structures accompany the oesophagus through this opening?
- A Anterior and posterior vagal trunks ✓
- B Thoracic duct only
- C Azygos vein and right phrenic nerve
- D Left recurrent laryngeal nerve
Correct answer: A. Anterior and posterior vagal trunks
Explanation
The oesophageal opening lies in the muscular part of the diaphragm at T10 and transmits the oesophagus together with the anterior and posterior vagal trunks, derived from the left and right vagus nerves respectively, along with oesophageal branches of the left gastric vessels. The azygos vein enters through the caval opening region at T8 and the thoracic duct passes through the aortic opening at T12, killing options C, B and D.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
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