Pharynx

pharynx /phar·ynx/ (far´inks) the throat; the musculomembranous cavity behind the nasal cavities, mouth, and larynx, communicating with them and with the esophagus.

Pharynx, divided into the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.

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phar·ynx (frngks)

n. pl. phar·ynx·es or pha·ryng·es (f-rnjz)

The upper section of the alimentary canal that extends from the mouth and nasal cavities to the larynx.

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Pharynx

The pharynx is the part of the throat that lies between the mouth and the larynx or voice box.

Mentioned in: Sore Throat, Swallowing Disorders, Velopharyngeal Insufficiency

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pharynx (fer´inks),

n a funnel-shaped tube of muscle tissue between the oral cavity and nares and the esophagus, which is the common pathway for food and air. The nasopharynx lies above the level of the soft palate. The oropharynx lies between the superior edge of the epiglottis and the soft palate, whereas the laryngopharynx extends from the superior edge of the epiglottis to the superior end of the esophagus behind the larynx.

pharynx, activities of posterior and lateral pharyngeal wall,

n.pl the bulging of the posterior and lateral pharyngeal wall produced by the superior pharyngeal constrictors and palatopharyngeus during the acts of swallowing and phonation; seen in individuals with a congenitally short soft palate, operated soft palate, or unoperated cleft of the soft palate. These activities are rarely present in the individual with the normal soft palate.

pharynx, implant surgical,

n first stage: a major oral operation in which the mucoperiosteum is elevated, exposing the oral surface of the jawbone; the surgical jaw relations are established, and an impression is made of the exposed bone surfaces. Second stage: a major oral surgical operation in which the mucoperiosteum is reelevated, the prepared implant is placed on the bone surface, and the mucoperiosteum is coapted and sutured about the posts of the protruding implant abutments.

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pharynx

the throat; the musculomembranous crossroads of the digestive and respiratory systems, found behind the nasal cavities and mouth, and rostral to the larynx and esophagus.

The pharynx includes many individual structures and may be divided into three parts: the nasopharynx (above), oropharynx (below) and laryngopharynx (behind). The nasopharynx, connected with the nasal cavities, provides a passage for air during breathing; it also contains the openings of the auditory tubes through which air enters the middle ear. The oropharynx and laryngopharynx provide passageways for both air and food. The pharynx also functions as a resonating organ in vocalization.

The pharynx is subdivided by the soft palate. In swallowing, the palate lifts up, closing off the nasopharynx as food passes from the mouth to the esophagus.