Ligament
Central tendon of the diaphragm
Mobile fibrous center of the breathing diaphragm
High-yield
A tendon can transmit force while moving. The central tendon descends during inspiration and contains the opening for the inferior vena cava.
Overview
Diaphragmatic muscle fibers converge onto this central sheet of tendon. It has no direct bony attachment and moves downward when the muscle contracts. Part of its upper surface is joined to the fibrous pericardium.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- Receives the surrounding diaphragm fibers; attached superiorly to fibrous pericardium, with no direct insertion into bone
- Function
- Collects and transmits muscular force as the diaphragm descends; contains the caval passage
- Clinical point
- The pericardial attachment links this tendon anatomically to the sac around the heart
Clinical correlation
The diaphragm and pericardium are physically connected at the central tendon. Their close relation matters when evaluating or operating on disease near the inferior heart and upper diaphragm.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the central tendon of the diaphragm attach?
Receives the surrounding diaphragm fibers; attached superiorly to fibrous pericardium, with no direct insertion into bone.
What does the central tendon of the diaphragm do?
Collects and transmits muscular force as the diaphragm descends; contains the caval passage.
Why does the central tendon of the diaphragm matter clinically?
The pericardial attachment links this tendon anatomically to the sac around the heart.