Structure/Morphology
The median arcuate ligament is the arch-like, thickened, fibrous area found along the medial margins of both the right and left crura of the diaphragm. It attaches to the anterolateral aspects of the vertebral bodies of the first and second lumbar vertebrae.
Anatomical Relations
There are five arcuate ligaments associated with the diaphragm:
- one median arcuate ligament;
- two medial arcuate ligaments;
- two lateral arcuate ligaments.
The median arcuate ligament is located:
- anterior to the twelfth thoracic vertebra and the aorta;
- medial to the right and left crura of the diaphragm.
It contributes to the formation of the aortic hiatus, through which the aorta and thoracic duct pass.
Function
The median arcuate ligament provides attachment sites for some of the fibers of the lumbar part of the diaphragm.
