LIGAMENTUM CRICOPHARYNGEUM Meaning and
Definition
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The ligamentum cricopharyngeum is a term used in anatomy to refer to a ligament located in the throat region known as the pharynx. Specifically, it is a band of fibrous tissue that connects the cricoid cartilage, a structure found in the larynx, to the muscular wall of the pharynx.
This ligament forms a ring-like structure or a sphincter at the junction between the upper part of the esophagus and the lower part of the pharynx. This region is known as the cricopharyngeal sphincter or the upper esophageal sphincter. It functions by regulating the passage of food, drink, and other substances between the pharynx and the esophagus during swallowing.
The ligamentum cricopharyngeum provides both structural support and flexibility, allowing for the opening and closing of the sphincter. During swallowing, the sphincter relaxes, allowing food or liquid to pass from the mouth into the esophagus. It then contracts to prevent the reflux of gastric contents from the stomach back into the throat.
Disorders or dysfunction of the ligamentum cricopharyngeum can lead to difficulties in swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia. This can result in discomfort, choking, or difficulty in fully emptying the pharynx during swallowing. Various medical interventions, such as stretching exercises or surgical procedures, may be employed to alleviate such issues and restore normal swallowing function.
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The lower part of the jugal ligament (l. corniculopharyngeum) attached to the lamina of the cricoid cartilage.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LIGAMENTUM CRICOPHARYNGEUM
- li gamentum cricopharyngeum
- lig amentum cricopharyngeum
- liga mentum cricopharyngeum
- ligam entum cricopharyngeum
- ligame ntum cricopharyngeum
- ligamen tum cricopharyngeum
- ligament um cricopharyngeum
- ligamentu m cricopharyngeum
- ligamentum c ricopharyngeum
- ligamentum cr icopharyngeum
- ligamentum cri copharyngeum
- ligamentum cric opharyngeum
- ligamentum cricoph aryngeum
- ligamentum cricopha ryngeum
- ligamentum cricophar yngeum
- ligamentum cricophary ngeum
- ligamentum cricopharyn geum
- ligamentum cricopharyng eum
- ligamentum cricopharynge um
- ligamentum cricopharyngeu m
Etymology of LIGAMENTUM CRICOPHARYNGEUM
The word "ligamentum cricopharyngeum" is derived from Latin and Greek terms.
The term "ligamentum" comes from the Latin word "ligamentum", meaning "a band or tie". In anatomical terminology, it refers to a fibrous band or structure that connects two bones or supports an organ.
"Crico-" is derived from the Greek word "krikoeidēs", which means "ring-shaped". It comes from the Greek word "krikos", meaning "ring", and "oeidēs", meaning "like" or "resembling".
"Pharyngeum" is derived from the Greek word "pharynx" which means "throat" or "part of the alimentary canal behind the mouth and nasal cavity, which leads down to the esophagus".
