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 develop 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

The last molar borders rostrally and the epiglottis caudally. The tongue borders ventrally and the soft palate dorsally. It is derived from endoderm.

The oropharynx is innervated by the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX). It is divided by the glossopalatine arch from the laryngeal pharynx.

Histology

The oropharynx has a stratified squamous epithelium. It is keratinised in ruminants. The lamina propria contains aggregates of lymphoid tissue (called tonsils) in several parts of the oropharynx.

Musculature

Constrictors

The constrictor muscles include the hyopharyngeus, thyropharyngeus and cricopharyngeus.

Dilators

The dilator muscle is the stylopharyngeus.

The pterygopharyngeus muscle shortens the oropharynx and the palatopharyngeus muscle closes the pharyngeal arch.

Innervation

Muscles from the pharyngeal arch are innervated by the vagus nerve (CN X). The stylopharyngeus from the pharyngeal arch is innervated by the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX).

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