Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Definition of Hiatal

Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026

Hiatal: Pertaining to an hiatus, an opening.

An hiatal hernia occurs when a part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm at the opening where the esophagus normally passes through the diaphragm.

"Hiatus" in Latin means an opening.

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