Pharynx Flashcards
What is the pharynx?
a muscular tube that connects the nasal cavities to the larynx and oesophagus
What is the pharynx common to?
both gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts
Where does the pharynx begin?
at the base of the skull
Where does the pharynx end?
inferiorly to the cricoid cartilage (C6)
What is the pharynx comprised of? (superior to inferior)
nasopharynx, oropharynx, laryngopharynx
what types of muscles form the wall of the pharynx?
longitudinal and circular
what are the longitudinal and circular muscles on the walls of the pharynx innervated by?
vagus nerve, expect for the stylopharyngeus
what is the stylopharyngeus innervated by?
glossopharyngeal nerve
What is the function of the circular muscles?
contact sequentially from superior to inferior to constrict the lumen and propel the bolus of food inferiorly into the oesophagus
how are the circular muscles arranged?
They are stacked like glasses and are an incomplete muscular circle
what do the circular muscles attach to anteriorly?
structures in the neck
what are the circular muscles innervated by?
They are all innervated by the vagus nerve (CN X)
where is the superior pharyngeal constrictor found?
found in the oropharynx
where is the middle pharyngeal constrictor found?
in the laryngopharynx
where is the inferior pharyngeal constrictor found?
in the laryngopharynx