Caval opening

Definition

The caval opening is an aperture in the diaphragm that allows the passage of the inferior vena cava, transmitting deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the heart. It is located at the level of the eighth thoracic vertebra.

Related terms

Diaphragm:

A muscular partition between the thoracic and abdominal cavities that plays a crucial role in respiration.

Inferior Vena Cava: The large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower and middle body to the heart.

Thoracic Vertebrae:

The twelve vertebrae located in the mid-back portion of the spine, which assist in protecting spinal cord and supporting the rib cage