Oropharynx - Anatomy & Physiology

Introduction

The pharynx is the chamber connecting the oral cavity, nasal cavity, oesophagus and larynx. The pharynx is divided into the nasopharynx, oropharynx and laryngeal pharynx which all have different functions, innervation and develope differently.

The oropharynx is the oral section of the pharynx.

Pharynx Labelled - Copyright C.Clarkson and T.F.Fletcher University of Minnesota

Structure and Function

• Last molar rostrally

• Epiglottis caudally

• Tongue ventrally

• Soft palate dorsally

• Endoderm

• Innervated by glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX)

• Divided by glossopalatine arch from laryngeal pharynx

Musculature

Constrictors

• Hyopharyngeus

• Thyropharyngeus

• Cricopharyngeus

Dilators

• Stylopharyngeus

Shorten

• Pterygopharyngeus

Close Pharyngeal Arch

• Palatopharyngeus

Innervation

• Muscles from pharyngeal arch 4 innervated by vagus nerve (CN X)

• Stylopharyngeus from pharyngeal arch 3 innervated by glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX)

Test yourself with the Oropharynx flashcards

Oropharynx Flashcards