The oesophagus Flashcards
1
Q
how long is the oesophagus
A
23-25cm in length
2
Q
describe the structure of the oesophagus - what surrounds it
A
Has a double layer of muscle made up of circular muscle, with muscle fibres arranged in a circle around the alimentary canal and longitudinal muscle, with fibres arranged along the length of the canal
3
Q
what are the 4 layers of the oesophagus
A
- inner mucosa: lines the alimentary canal
- submucosa: glands and CT
- a double layer of muscle: circular + longitudinal muscle
- outermost: CT layer
4
Q
what is the movement of food along the oesophagus called?
A
peristalsis
5
Q
what happens when food moves down the oesophagus
A
Food is lubricated by the secretion of mucus from the inner lining of the oesophagus.
6
Q
Describe the process of peristalsis
A
Are the rhythmical wave-like contractions of the circular muscle of the oesophagus that pushes food down it forming constrictions behind it
