The pharynx and tonsils Flashcards
What is the pharynx?
- 12-14cm long musculomembranous tube
- between nasal cavity and entrance to larynx and oesophagus
- partially surrounded by muscle
What is the function of the pharynx?
has a role in articulation and respiration
What regions is the pharynx divided into?
- nasopharynx
- oropharynx
- laryngopharynx
Where does the nasopharynx extend between?
the nose and soft palate
Where does the oropharynx extend between?
soft palate to tip of epiglottis
Where does the laryngopharynx extend between?
epiglottis to cricoid cartilage
What does the nasopharynx contain?
- pharyngeal tonsil (adenoids)
- opening of auditory tubes
- tubal tonsils
Where does the oropharynx open into the mouth?
through the oropharyngeal isthmus
Where does the oropharynx start?
by the palatoglossal arch
What does the lateral wall of the oropharynx contain?
the palatopharyngeal arch and palatine tonsil
Where is the oropharynx relative to the spine?
level with the bodies of the second, and upper part of third vertebrae
Where is the laryngopharynx?
behind the entire length of the larynx, and is continuous with the oesophagus
What is in the upper part of the anterior wall of the laryngopharynx?
the laryngeal inlet
Where is the laryngopharynx in relation to the spine?
- at rest, extends between 3rd and 6th cervical vertebral body
- during swallow, is elevated considerably by hyoid elevators
What are the types of muscles of the pharynx?
- circular (inner muscles)
- longitudinal (outer muscles)
How do the muscles of the pharynx support peristalsis?
through constriction (circular) and elevation (longitudinal)
What are the circular muscles of the pharynx?
- superior constrictor
- medial constrictor
- inferior constrictor
- cricopharyngeus