HIATUS OESOPHAGEUS Meaning and
Definition
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Hiatus oesophageus, also known as esophageal hiatus, refers to a an anatomical opening through which the esophagus passes as it connects the pharynx (throat) to the stomach. The term hiatus oesophageus is derived from Latin origin meaning "hiatus" for an aperture or opening, and "oesophageus" pertains to the esophagus.
Situated in the diaphragm, the hiatus oesophageus functions as a passage for the esophagus to traverse from its origin in the neck down to the stomach in the abdominal cavity. This anatomical structure is responsible for maintaining the connection between the respiratory and digestive systems.
In a healthy individual, the hiatus oesophageus permits smooth passage of swallowed food and liquids from the throat into the stomach. However, certain medical conditions such as hiatal hernia can affect the normal functioning of the hiatus oesophageus. A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes upward into the chest through the hiatus oesophageus. This displacement can cause symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and acid reflux.
To diagnose and treat a hiatus oesophageus-related condition, medical professionals may employ diagnostic imaging techniques such as X-rays, endoscopy, and pH monitoring. Treatment options can include medication to alleviate symptoms or, in severe cases, surgical intervention to repair or reinforce the hiatus oesophageus and address any related complications.
In conclusion, the hiatus oesophageus is the anatomical passage in the diaphragm that allows the esophagus to connect the throat to the stomach, playing a crucial role in the digestion process.
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Esophageal opening; the opening in the diaphragm, between the central tendon and the hiatus aorticus, through which pass the esophagus and the two pneumogastric nerves.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HIATUS OESOPHAGEUS
- giatus oesophageus
- biatus oesophageus
- niatus oesophageus
- jiatus oesophageus
- uiatus oesophageus
- yiatus oesophageus
- huatus oesophageus
- hjatus oesophageus
- hkatus oesophageus
- hoatus oesophageus
- h9atus oesophageus
- h8atus oesophageus
- hiztus oesophageus
- histus oesophageus
- hiwtus oesophageus
- hiqtus oesophageus
- hiarus oesophageus
- hiafus oesophageus
- hiagus oesophageus
- hiayus oesophageus
Etymology of HIATUS OESOPHAGEUS
The term "hiatus oesophageus" is derived from two separate words.
1. "Hiatus" is derived from the Latin word "hiatus" meaning "opening", "gap", or "cleft". In this context, it refers to an anatomical opening or gap.
2. "Oesophageus" is derived from classical Latin "oesophagus", which in turn is from the Greek word "oisophágos". The Greek word "oisophágos" is a combination of "oisos" meaning "equal" and "phágos" meaning "to eat". Therefore, "oesophagus" refers to a part of the digestive system through which food travels.
When combined, "hiatus oesophageus" refers to an anatomical opening or gap in the esophagus. It specifically refers to the opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus passes.
