Pharynx - Anatomy & Physiology

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Introduction

The pharynx is part of both the respiratory and digestive system. Both systems have entrances to the pharynx but they are separated from each other by the soft palate.

During exercise or during respiratory distress, the mouth can be used as an additional opening of the respiratory system and then the oropharynx also becomes an air-way.

The pharynx can be split into different regions- the oropharynx, oesophageal/laryngeal pharynx and the nasal pharynx

Structure

• Opening of the larynx is on the floor of the pharynx

• Caudal and dorsal to the laryngeal opening is the opening into the oesophagus

• In the dorsal region of the nasal pharynx there are paired openings into the Auditory (Eustacian) Tubes

• The lining of the middle ear cavity and auditory tube is continuous with that of the nasal pharynx

• Walls are muscular