2.6 The Pharynx

Question 1

What is the Pharynx?

Answer 1

A Fibromuscular Tube that is important in swallowing and breathing

Question 2

What are the 3 parts of the Pharynx?

Answer 2

1. The Nasopharynx
2. The Oropharynx
3. The Laryngopharynx

Question 3

What is the roof of the Nasopharynx formed by?

Answer 3

The Sphenoid Bone and the Occipital Bone

Question 4

Where does the (Laryngo)Pharynx lie in relation to the Larynx?

Answer 4

Posterosuperior

Question 5

During swallowing, what prevents the Bolus from entering the Nasopharynx?

Answer 5

The elevation of the Soft Palate

Question 6

During swallowing, what prevents the Bolus from entering the Larynx?

Answer 6

The Epiglottis

Question 7

What are the 3 layers of the Pharynx?

Answer 7

1. The Outer, Muscular Layer
2. The Middle, Fibrous Layer
3. The Inner Mucous Membrane

Question 8

What does the Outer Muscular Layer of the Pharynx comprise of?

Answer 8

1. The Outer Circular Layer
2. The Inner Longitudinal Layer

Question 9

What are the 3 Constrictor Muscles of the Outer Circular Layer, of the Outer Muscular Layer, of the Pharynx?

Answer 9

1. Superior Constrictor Muscle
2. Middle Constrictor Muscle
3. Inferior Constrictor Muscle

Question 10

What are the 3 Muscles which form the Inner Longitudinal Layer, of the Outer Muscular Layer, of the Pharynx?

Answer 10

1. Stylopharyngeus
2. Salpingopharyngeus
3. Palatopharyngeus

Question 11

What is the function of the Middle, Fibrous Layer of the Pharynx?

Answer 11

It merges with the deep fascia of the muscles and fills in the gaps between the muscles

Question 12

What innervates the Pharynx?

Answer 12

The Pharyngeal Plexus

Question 13

Branches of which 2 Cranial Nerves form the Pharyngeal Plexus?

Answer 13

1. The Glossopharyngeal Nerve (Cranial Nerve IX)
2. The Vagus Nerve (Cranial Nerve X)

Question 14

Which Nerve of the Pharyngeal Plexus provides Sensory innervation to the Pharynx?

Answer 14

The Glossopharyngeal Nerve (Cranial Nerve IX)

Question 15

Which Nerve provides most of the Motor innervation to the Pharynx?

Answer 15

The Vagus Nerve

Question 16

What is the role played by the Constrictor Muscles of the Pharynx during Swallowing?

Answer 16

These contract involuntarily (from Superior to Inferior) ensuring the Bolus travels in the correct direction

Question 17

What is the role played by the Longitudinal Muscles of the Pharynx during Swallowing?

Answer 17

These contract elevating the Larynx and shortening the Pharynx

Question 18

What is the role played by the Tongue and Palate during Swallowing?

Answer 18

These push the Bolus to the Pharynx so it can be successfully Swallowed

Question 19

What is the Pharyngeal Lymphoid Ring?

Answer 19

This is a collection of Lymphoid Tissue that protects the entrance to the Oropharynx

Question 20

What is the purpose of having the Pharyngeal Lymphoid Ring in this location?

Answer 20

It acts as a first line of defense against infection

Question 21

What can repeat infection of the Pharyngeal Lymphoid Collections call for?
Note: This is especially common in children

Answer 21

This can cause for their surgical removal, either a Tonsillectomy or an Adenoidectomy

Question 22

What are the other collections of Lymphoid Tissue in between the Adenoids and the Palatine Tonsils?

Answer 22

Tubal Tonsils