Throat Physiology Flashcards
what does the throat consist of?
the oral cavity
the pharynx
the larynx
what is the oral cavity?
extends from the lips to the tonsils
what are the 3 areas of the pharynx?
nasopharynx
oropharynx
hypopharynx
what is the nasopharynx?
extends from the posterior nasal openings to the soft palate
what is the oropharynx
extends from the soft palate to the tip of the epiglottis
what is the hypopharynx
extends from the tip of the epiglottis to just below the level of the cricoid cartilage where it is continuous with the oesophagus
where is the larynx?
within the hypopharynx
what does the larynx consist of?
cartilaginous
ligamentous
and
muscular tissue
what is the primary function of the larynx?
to protect the distal airway
what innervates the pharynx?
the pharyngeal plexus
what do the vocal cords do in inspiration?
abduct (open)
what do the vocal cords do in expiration?
adduct (close) - to protect the airway and for voice production (phonation)
what is the main nerve supply of the vocal cords?
the recurrent laryngeal nerves (branches of the vagus nerve)
arise in the neck - pass down on the left side around the aortic arch and then ascend in the tracheo-oesophageal groove to the larynx
what is the requirement of a healthy voice?
full closure of the vocal cords with a smooth, regular pattern of vibration
anything preventing full closure of the vocal cords will result in air escaping between the vocal cords during phonation and ‘breathy’ voice
