Week 10 - The Pharynx and Development of Midline Structures

Question 1

How can enlarged adenoids increase risk of middle ear infections?

Answer 1

The location of the adenoids close to the opening of the pharyngotympanic tube can impede ventilation and drainage of the middle ear, increasing risk of middle ear infections

Question 2

How can enlarged adenoids cause mouth breathing and snoring?

Answer 2

The location of the adenoids is close to the posterior nasal apertures - thus when enlarged, they can block the nasal passage of air

Question 3

The borders of the oropharynx lie between which 2 structures?

Answer 3

The soft palate and the tip of the epiglottis

Question 4

At what anatomical landmark does the pharynx continue as the oesophagus?

Answer 4

At the vertebral level of C6 - the cricoid cartilage

Question 5

Where is the basilar artery formed?

Answer 5

The 2 vertebral arteries enter the skull through the foramen magnum, where they join to form a single basilar artery, running on the ventral aspect of the brainstem

Question 6

Which nerve is responsible for pharyngeal constriction during swallowing?

Answer 6

Vagus nerve