Constrictor muscles

Question 1

Name the 3 constrictor muscles

Answer 1

Superior, middle and inferior

Question 2

Function of constrictor muscles

Answer 2

Constrict walls of pharynx during swallowing

Question 3

Which constrictor muscle contracts first when swallowing?

Answer 3

Superior (and sequential contraction superior–> inferior)

Question 4

Innervation of constrictor muscles

Answer 4

Vagus nerve (CN X)

Question 5

Which two specific branches of the vagus nerve innervates the constrictor muscles?

Answer 5

1. Pharyngeal branch of vagus

2. Pharyngeal plexus

Question 6

Where is the superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle located?

Answer 6

Oropharynx

Question 7

Where is the middle pharyngeal constrictor muscle located?

Answer 7

Laryngopharynx

Question 8

Where is the inferior pharyngeal constrictor muscle located?

Answer 8

Laryngopharynx

Question 9

Which constrictor muscle has 2 components?

Answer 9

Inferior pharyngeal constrictor muscle

Question 10

Name the 2 components of the inferior constrictor muscle

Answer 10

Thyropharyngeus

Cricopharyngeus

Question 11

Name 3 things found superior to the superior constrictor muscle

Answer 11

1. Levator veli palatini
2. Eustachian tube
3. Ascending palatine artery

Question 12

Name 3 things found in the gap between the superior and middle constrictor muscles

Answer 12

1. Stylopharyngeus muscle
2. Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX)
3. Stylohyoid ligament

Question 13

Name 2 things in the gap between the middle and inferior constrictor muscles

Answer 13

1. Internal laryngeal nerve

2. Superior laryngeal artery and vein

Question 14

Name 2 things inferior to the inferior constrictor muscle?

Answer 14

1. Recurrent laryngeal nerve

2. Inferior laryngeal artery