2.6 The Pharynx Flashcards
What is the Pharynx?
A Fibromuscular Tube that is important in swallowing and breathing
What are the 3 parts of the Pharynx?
- The Nasopharynx
- The Oropharynx
- The Laryngopharynx
What is the roof of the Nasopharynx formed by?
The Sphenoid Bone and the Occipital Bone
Where does the (Laryngo)Pharynx lie in relation to the Larynx?
Posterosuperior
During swallowing, what prevents the Bolus from entering the Nasopharynx?
The elevation of the Soft Palate
During swallowing, what prevents the Bolus from entering the Larynx?
The Epiglottis
What are the 3 layers of the Pharynx?
- The Outer, Muscular Layer
- The Middle, Fibrous Layer
- The Inner Mucous Membrane
What does the Outer Muscular Layer of the Pharynx comprise of?
- The Outer Circular Layer
2. The Inner Longitudinal Layer
What are the 3 Constrictor Muscles of the Outer Circular Layer, of the Outer Muscular Layer, of the Pharynx?
- Superior Constrictor Muscle
- Middle Constrictor Muscle
- Inferior Constrictor Muscle
What are the 3 Muscles which form the Inner Longitudinal Layer, of the Outer Muscular Layer, of the Pharynx?
- Stylopharyngeus
- Salpingopharyngeus
- Palatopharyngeus
What is the function of the Middle, Fibrous Layer of the Pharynx?
It merges with the deep fascia of the muscles and fills in the gaps between the muscles
What innervates the Pharynx?
The Pharyngeal Plexus
Branches of which 2 Cranial Nerves form the Pharyngeal Plexus?
- The Glossopharyngeal Nerve (Cranial Nerve IX)
2. The Vagus Nerve (Cranial Nerve X)
Which Nerve of the Pharyngeal Plexus provides Sensory innervation to the Pharynx?
The Glossopharyngeal Nerve (Cranial Nerve IX)
Which Nerve provides most of the Motor innervation to the Pharynx?
The Vagus Nerve
What is the role played by the Constrictor Muscles of the Pharynx during Swallowing?
These contract involuntarily (from Superior to Inferior) ensuring the Bolus travels in the correct direction
What is the role played by the Longitudinal Muscles of the Pharynx during Swallowing?
These contract elevating the Larynx and shortening the Pharynx
What is the role played by the Tongue and Palate during Swallowing?
These push the Bolus to the Pharynx so it can be successfully Swallowed
What is the Pharyngeal Lymphoid Ring?
This is a collection of Lymphoid Tissue that protects the entrance to the Oropharynx
What is the purpose of having the Pharyngeal Lymphoid Ring in this location?
It acts as a first line of defense against infection
What can repeat infection of the Pharyngeal Lymphoid Collections call for?
Note: This is especially common in children
This can cause for their surgical removal, either a Tonsillectomy or an Adenoidectomy
What are the other collections of Lymphoid Tissue in between the Adenoids and the Palatine Tonsils?
Tubal Tonsils
