Superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle

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Superior Pharyngeal Constrictor Muscle is a muscle in the pharynx that plays a crucial role in the process of swallowing. It is part of the pharyngeal constrictor muscles, which also include the middle pharyngeal constrictor muscle and the inferior pharyngeal constrictor muscle. These muscles are responsible for constricting the pharyngeal wall and propelling food into the esophagus.

Anatomy

The superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle originates from several points: the pterygomandibular raphe (a fibrous band that extends from the mandible to the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone), the mandible near the molar teeth, and the side of the tongue. It wraps around the pharynx and inserts into the pharyngeal raphe, a midline structure of the pharynx.

This muscle is innervated by the pharyngeal plexus of the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X), which provides motor innervation. The blood supply comes from the pharyngeal branch of the ascending pharyngeal artery, a branch of the external carotid artery.

Function

The primary function of the superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle is to initiate the act of swallowing. When it contracts, it constricts the diameter of the pharynx, pushing the food bolus from the oropharynx into the esophagus. It works in coordination with the middle and inferior pharyngeal constrictor muscles to ensure that the bolus is efficiently and effectively moved down the throat.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction or paralysis of the superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle can lead to swallowing difficulties, known medically as dysphagia. This can result from various causes, including neurological diseases, direct trauma to the nerve supplying the muscle, or surgery in the neck region that affects the pharyngeal plexus.

See Also

• Pharynx
• Swallowing
• Pharyngeal constrictor muscles
• Dysphagia