Pharynx

Pharynx

Musculomembranous tube serving as a passageway for air and food, extending from the base of the skull to the cricoid cartilage.

Nasopharynx

The upper part of the pharynx, connecting the nasal cavity to the oropharynx, located posterior to the nose.

Oropharynx

The middle part of the pharynx, located posterior to the oral cavity.

Laryngopharynx

The lower part of the pharynx, located posterior to the larynx, leading to the esophagus.

Waldeyer’s tonsillar ring

A ring of lymphoid tissue surrounding the oropharynx, consisting of palatine, pharyngeal, and lingual tonsils.

Pharyngotympanic tube

A tube connecting the nasopharynx to the middle ear, also known as the Eustachian tube, which equalizes air pressure.

Constriction muscles

Three circular muscles in the pharynx (superior, middle, and inferior constrictor) that aid in swallowing by constricting the pharynx.

Valves of the pharynx

Structures including the soft palate and epiglottis that protect the airway during swallowing and prevent food from entering the lungs.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing, which could indicate pharyngeal or esophageal dysfunction.

Esophageal peristalsis

Involuntary waves of muscle contraction in the esophagus that push food toward the stomach.

Buccopharyngeal fascia

A layer of fascia that covers the pharynx and contributes to its structural integrity.