Diaphragmatic cupula

The diaphragmatic cupula corresponds to the most cranial part of the diaphragm, composed by the cranial domed part of the diaphragm that extends into the thoracic cavity. It is formed by the central tendon and adjacent muscular portions of the diaphragm and protrudes cranially into the thorax, reaching further forward on the right side in most domestic animals due to the position of the liver.

In most domestic animals, there is only a single diaphragmatic cupulla, central or right paramedian in position, whereas in humans, two diaphragmatic cupulae (right and left hemidiaphragms) are described, separated by the cardiac impression on the diaphragm.