Pharynx and Soft Palate

Question 1

describe the pharynx

Answer 1

it is a fibromuscular tube, attached above the base of the skull and descends to the level of C6 where it becomes continuous with the oesophagus. it is about 12cm in length

Question 2

what does the pharynx communicate with?

Answer 2

the nose, mouth and larynx

Question 3

what are the 3 parts of the pharynx?

Answer 3

nasopharynx, oropharynx and laryngopharynx

Question 4

what are the muscles of the pharynx?

Answer 4

the superior, middle and inferior constrictors which are supplements by 3 smaller muscles: stylopharyngeus, palatopharyngeus and salpingopharyngeus)

Question 5

what is the pharyngobasilar fascia?

Answer 5

it is a fibrous thickening of the submucosa that fills in the ga between the skull and the upper border of the superior constrictor,

Question 6

what is the attachment of the pharyngobasilar fascia?

Answer 6

base of the skull

Question 7

what is the attachment of the pharyngeal raphe?

Answer 7

the pharyngeal tubercle, a midline thickening in front of the foramen magnum

Question 8

what is one function of the pharyngobasilar fascia?

Answer 8

it holds the nasopharynx permanently open for breathing

Question 9

what is the origin of levator palati?

Answer 9

the quadrangular area at the apex of the petrous bone in front of the carotid canal

Question 10

where does the cartilaginous part of the auditory tube enter the nasopharynx?

Answer 10

above the pharyngobasilar fascia, which is firmly attached to its lower surface