Superior diaphragmatic nodes
Nodi phrenici superiores
- Synonym: Superior phrenic nodes; Nodes of cardiophrenic angle
Definition
The superior diaphragmatic nodes (superior phrenic nodes) are located on the superior surface of the diaphragm.
They may be subdivided into three groups :
The anterior group of diaphragmatic nodes : posterior to the xiphoid process at the level of the seventh costochondral junction. with afferent lymphatic vessels from the anterior part of the diaphragm and efferent lymphatic vessels from the same pass to the parasternal nodes.
The lateral group of diaphragmatic lymph nodes: adjacent to the point at which the right and left phrenic nerves pierce the diaphragm.
The right lateral group: juxtaposed to the pericardium and the distal part of the intrathoracic inferior vena cava, drain the central diaphragm and the convex surface of the liver.
The left lateral group: at the left cardiophrenic angle
The posterior group of diaphragmatic nodes: posterior surface of the diaphragmatic crura, separate from the esophagus
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