What structure lies posteriorly to the right adrenal gland?

The diaphragm is the correct structure that lies posteriorly to the right adrenal gland. The right adrenal gland, also known as the right suprarenal gland, is situated in the upper abdomen, and its posterior surface is adjacent to the diaphragm, which separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity.

In terms of anatomical positioning, the diaphragm has a close anatomical relationship with the adrenal glands. It helps to form the roof of the abdominal cavity, and its posterior side is directly related to structures like the adrenal glands, particularly on the right side due to the presence of the liver on the right side of the body causing the right adrenal gland to be positioned slightly lower than the left.

While both the right kidney and the inferior vena cava are located adjacent to the right adrenal gland, they lie mainly anteriorly and medially. The hepatorenal pouch, or Morrison's pouch, is a potential space located inferiorly to the liver and anterior to the right kidney—it does not directly relate to the posterior aspect of the adrenal gland. Understanding these relationships is essential in anatomy and surgical contexts, especially when considering surgical approaches or potential pathologies affecting the adrenal glands.