Module 7b: The Neck Flashcards
Pharynx
-fibromuscular tube that extends from the base of the skull to the upper esophageal sphincter
What are the 3 constrictor muscles of the pharynx
-superior
-middle
-inferior
Upper esophageal sphincter
-formed by the lower part of inferior constrictor muscle of the pharynx
Upper esophageal sphincter function
-prevents reflux of food into airway and prevents air from entering the digestive tract
The pharynx
-situated posterior and communicates with, to the nasal cavities, oral cavity, and larynx
Divisions of the pharynx
-nasopharynx
-oropharynx
-laryngopharynx
The nasopharynx
-communicates with the nasal cavities anteriorly by choanae
-openings to eustachian tubes are located on lateral walls of nasopharynx
Pharyngeal tonsil
-collection of lymphatic tissue located on roof of nasopharynx
Soft palate
-can close the pharyngeal isthmus by elevation during swallowing
The oropharynx
-communicates anteriorly with oral cavity through the oropharyngeal isthmus
-each side of the oropharynx consists of 2 folds of mucous membranes supported by underlying muscles
Mucous membrane of the oropharynx
-palatoglossal arch
-palatopharyngeal arch
Palatine tonsil
-collection of lymphatic tissue between the folds
The laryngopharynx
-extends from oropharynx to esophagus
Piriform recesses
-2 recesses located on each side of the laryngeal inlet
-form channels that direct food from oral cavity to either side of the raised laryngeal inlet, towards the esophagus
Choking
-blockage of upper airway, usually above the vocal folds, can be defined as a partial or full. obstruction
Choking symptoms
-irregular breathing /coughing
-high pitched wheezing/no breathing
-lips may turn blue
-panic
-waving of area in distress
-loss of consciousness
Vestibular and vocal ligaments
-both ligaments are enclosed by their respective superficial folds
Vestibular fold
-false vocal cord
Vocal fold
-true vocal fold
Cricothyroid ligament
-originates from upper border of cricoid cartilage and extends superiorly where free upper margin forms vocal ligament
Arytenoid cartilage
-located at back of larynx, primary function is to close vocal folds when swallowing
-secondary function is to change tension of vocal folds for production of sound
Intrinsic muscles of the larynx
-thryoarytenoid
-cricothyroid
Thryoarytenoid
-originates from inferoposterior aspect of thyroid cartilage, and attaches to the anterolateral part of the arytenoid cartilage
Thryoarytenoid function
-acts to relax the vocal ligament, producing a softer voice