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Examine the inferior surface of the diaphragm. Its muscle fibers arise from the xiphoid process, costal margin, tips of the eleventh and twelfth ribs, and the lumbar vertebrae. Its muscle fibers insert into the central tendon.
The lumbar portion of the diaphragm forms two crura which attach to the lateral surface of the bodies from the L1 to L3 vertebrae. The right crus and left crus are joined by the median arcuate ligament, which passes anterior to the aorta and forms the anterior border of the aortic hiatus. This opening lies just anterior to the body of the T12 vertebra which forms its posterior border.Links and References:
Grant's: 2.100
Netter: 181
Rohen/Yokochi: 314