In human anatomy, the esophageal hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus and the vagus nerve pass.

The esophageal hiatus is an oval opening[1] in (sources differ) the right crus of the diaphragm[1]/left crus of the diaphragm, with fibres of the right crus looping around the hiatus to form a sling (upon inspiration, this sling would constrict the esophagus, forming a functional (not anatomical) sphincter that prevents gastric contents from refluxing up the esophagus when intra-abdominal pressure rises during inspiration[citation needed]).

[1][2] The transversalis fascia lining the inferior surface of the diaphragm extends superiorly through the hiatus to blend with the endothoracic fascia and attach to the oesophagus 2-3 cm superior to the phrenoesophageal ligament.

[2] The esophageal hiatus is located at level of the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10), 2.5 cm to the left of the midline,[2] and (sources differ) posterior to the 7th left costal cartilage[2]/at the level of the 8th or 9th intercostal spaces.

[citation needed] Hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach passes through the esophageal hiatus.