cricopharyngeus muscle
Quick Summary
The cricopharyngeus muscle is an extrinsic muscle of the larynx. It extends from the cricoid cartilage to the lower part of the pharynx and the opening of the esophagus. This muscle plays a role in closing the esophagus when not in use for swallowing.12
During swallowing, the cricopharyngeus muscle, also known as the upper esophageal sphincter, relaxes to allow food to pass from the pharynx into the esophagus. Emotional tension can cause this muscle to spasm, leading to a sensation of a lump in the throat.312
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esophagus…or upper, end is the upper esophageal sphincter, and at the distal, or lower, end is the lower esophageal sphincter.
Read More…or upper, end is the upper esophageal sphincter, and at the distal, or lower, end is the lower esophageal sphincter.
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human digestive systemEsophagusThis sphincter is called the cricopharyngeus muscle. The lower esophageal sphincter encircles the 3 to 4 cm of the esophagus that pass through an opening in the diaphragm called the diaphragmatic hiatus. The lower esophageal sphincter is maintained in tension at all times, except in response to a descending contraction…
Read MoreThis sphincter is called the cricopharyngeus muscle. The lower esophageal sphincter encircles the 3 to 4 cm of the esophagus that pass through an opening in the diaphragm called the diaphragmatic hiatus. The lower esophageal sphincter is maintained in tension at all times, except in response to a descending contraction…
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