Pharyngeal branch

Pharyngeal branch refers to a specific branch of the vagus nerve, which is the tenth cranial nerve in the human body. The pharyngeal branch plays a crucial role in the functioning of the pharynx, a part of the throat that is involved in various critical processes such as swallowing and vocalization.

Anatomy

The pharyngeal branch of the vagus nerve arises from the upper part of the ganglion nodosum. It ascends to the side of the pharynx, behind the internal carotid artery, and divides into several filaments. These filaments supply the muscles and mucous membrane of the pharynx, the muscles of the soft palate except the tensor veli palatini, and the upper part of the trachea.

Function

The pharyngeal branch of the vagus nerve is primarily responsible for the sensory and motor innervation of the pharynx. This means it carries both sensory information from the pharynx to the brain, and motor commands from the brain to the pharynx. It is involved in the reflex control of swallowing and vocalization.

Clinical significance

Damage to the pharyngeal branch of the vagus nerve can result in a variety of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), voice changes, and loss of gag reflex. This can occur due to various causes, such as surgical complications, tumors, or neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis.

See also

• Vagus nerve
• Pharynx
• Cranial nerves
• Dysphagia