The spelling of "musculus constrictor pharyngis inferior" can be challenging due to its length and Latin origin. However, understanding its phonetic transcription can make it easier to pronounce. According to IPA, it is pronounced as /ˈmʌskjʊləs kənˈstrɪktər fəˈrɪndʒɪs ɪnˈfɪərɪər/. Breaking it down, "musculus" is pronounced as /ˈmʌskjʊləs/, "constrictor" as /kənˈstrɪktər/, "pharyngis" as /fəˈrɪndʒɪs/, and "inferior" as /ɪnˈfɪərɪər/. Knowing
The term "musculus constrictor pharyngis inferior" refers to a muscle located in the throat, specifically the inferior constrictor muscle of the pharynx. It is the lowest of three major constrictor muscles present in the pharynx.
The musculus constrictor pharyngis inferior is a thin, flat muscle that forms a part of the pharyngeal wall in the neck. It extends horizontally from the cricoid cartilage, which is a ring-shaped structure at the bottom of the larynx, to the sides of the posterior midline of the pharynx. This muscle plays a critical role during swallowing and is involved in the movement of food from the back of the throat down into the esophagus.
When swallowing occurs, the musculus constrictor pharyngis inferior contracts in a coordinated manner along with the other constrictor muscles of the pharynx. This action contributes to the peristaltic movement that propels food through the digestive tract. Additionally, this muscle works in conjunction with other muscles in the throat to control the opening and closing of the pharynx, allowing for the passage of food while preventing entry into the respiratory tract.
In summary, the musculus constrictor pharyngis inferior is a key muscle involved in the process of swallowing and helps facilitate the movement of food from the throat to the esophagus.
Origin, outer surfaces of thyroid and cricoid cartilages; insertion, posterior portion of wall of pharynx; nerve supply, pharyngeal plexus; action, narrows lower part of pharynx in swallowing.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.