Swallowing Phases Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards for the phases of swallowing.

Oral Preparation Phase

The phase where food is introduced into the mouth, manipulated, and crushed as it mixes with mucous secretions. Mastication occurs, and the bolus is formed.

Oral Transit Phase

The phase where the tongue base drops, assisting in anterior-to-posterior propulsion of the bolus. The anterior tongue elevates to the alveolar ridge, and the bolus contacts the faucial pillars, soft palate, or posterior tongue base, triggering the pharyngeal phase.

Pharyngeal Phase

A reflexive phase triggered by the central nervous system. The velum elevates to close, the hyoid bone and larynx move superiorly and anteriorly, vocal folds adduct, and the epiglottis flips over. Pharyngeal constrictors contract to move the bolus downward and the UES opens.

Esophageal Phase

The phase where the bolus moves past the open UES into the esophagus. It is propelled by peristaltic contractions and gravity. This phase opens the velopharyngeal port and larynx for breathing to resume and is primarily under the domain of a gastroenterologist.

Upper Esophageal Sphincter (UES)

Relaxes and is pulled open during the pharyngeal phase to allow the bolus to enter the esophagus.

Bolus

A mass of food that has been chewed and mixed with saliva, ready to be swallowed.