Stylopharyngeus

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Stylopharyngeus is a muscle in the pharynx, or throat, that is involved in swallowing. It is the only muscle that is innervated by the glossopharyngeal nerve.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The stylopharyngeus originates from the base of the styloid process of the temporal bone. It descends between the internal carotid artery and the internal jugular vein down to the sides of the pharynx and the thyroid cartilage. It then inserts into the posterior border of the thyroid cartilage.

Function[edit | edit source]

The main function of the stylopharyngeus is to elevate the pharynx and larynx during swallowing and speech. It also helps to widen the pharynx to allow the passage of a large food bolus.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Damage to the glossopharyngeal nerve can result in a loss of function of the stylopharyngeus. This can cause difficulty in swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia.

See also[edit | edit source]

Stylopharyngeus Resources


References[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]

Further reading[edit | edit source]

  • Moore, Keith L.; Dalley, Arthur F.; Agur, Anne M.R. (2013). Clinically Oriented Anatomy. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. ISBN 978-1-4511-1945-9.
  • Netter, Frank H. (2014). Atlas of Human Anatomy. Elsevier. ISBN 978-1-4557-0418-7.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD