Figure 15 - The "pinchcock" action of the pelvic and crural diaphragms on the alimentary canal as it enters and exits the abdominal cavity.

a: The puborectalis sling around the anorectal junction. b: Anterior view of the right crus of the diaphragm forming a sling around the EGJ. (Source: Allison,¹⁹ with permission from American College of Surgeons.)