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==Introduction==

The [[Pharynx - Anatomy & Physiology|pharynx]] is the chamber connecting the [[Oral Cavity Overview - Anatomy & Physiology|oral cavity]], [[Nasal Cavity - Anatomy & Physiology|nasal cavity]], [[Oesophagus - Anatomy & Physiology|oesophagus]] and [[Larynx - Anatomy & Physiology|larynx]]. The [[Pharynx - Anatomy & Physiology|pharynx]] is divided into the nasopharynx, oropharynx and [[Larynx - Anatomy & Physiology#Laryngeal Pharynx|laryngeal pharynx]] which all have different functions, innervation and develop differently. The oropharynx is the oral section of the [[Pharynx - Anatomy & Physiology|pharynx]].
[[Image:Pharynx Anatomy.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Pharynx Labelled - Copyright C.Clarkson and T.F.Fletcher University of Minnesota]]

==Structure and Function==

The last molar borders rostrally and the [[Larynx - Anatomy & Physiology#Epiglottis|epiglottis]] caudally. The [[Tongue - Anatomy & Physiology|tongue]] borders ventrally and the [[Soft Palate|soft palate]] dorsally. It is derived from endoderm.

The oropharynx is innervated by the '''glossopharyngeal nerve''' ([[Cranial Nerves - Anatomy & Physiology|CN IX]]). It is divided by the '''glossopalatine arch''' from the [[Larynx - Anatomy & Physiology#Laryngeal Pharynx|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''' ([[Cranial Nerves - Anatomy & Physiology|CN X]]). The stylopharyngeus from the pharyngeal arch is innervated by the '''glossopharyngeal nerve''' ([[Cranial Nerves - Anatomy & Physiology|CN IX]]).

==Links==

'''Test yourself with the [[Oral Cavity - Anatomy & Physiology - Flashcards#Oropharynx Flashcards|Oropharynx Flashcards]]'''


[[Category:Oral Cavity - Anatomy & Physiology]]