TRACHEOPHARYNGEAL Meaning and
Definition
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Tracheopharyngeal is an adjective that refers to anything related to the trachea and the pharynx. The term combines the words "trachea" and "pharyngeal." The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a tube-like structure in the respiratory system that connects the larynx and bronchi, allowing for the passage of air into the lungs. On the other hand, the pharynx is a muscular tube located behind the nasal cavity, mouth, and larynx that serves as a common pathway for both air and food.
When referring to "tracheopharyngeal," it often concerns the anatomical or physiological aspects of the trachea and pharynx, or the diseases and conditions affecting these regions. For instance, tracheopharyngeal fistula describes an abnormal connection between the trachea and the pharynx that may develop as a result of congenital birth defects or other pathological conditions. This particular condition can lead to difficulty in breathing, swallowing, and increased risk of infections.
Overall, the term tracheopharyngeal is used in the medical field to describe anything related to the trachea and the pharynx, encompassing their structure, function, and potential disorders or abnormalities affecting these areas.
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Relating to both trachea and pharynx, noting an occasional band of muscular fibers passing from the inferior constrictor of the pharynx to the trachea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TRACHEOPHARYNGEAL
Etymology of TRACHEOPHARYNGEAL
The word "tracheopharyngeal" is a compound term composed of two root words: "tracheo-" and "pharyngeal".
The first part, "tracheo-", comes from the Greek word "tracheia", which means "trachea". The trachea refers to the tube-shaped structure in the vertebrate respiratory system that connects the larynx or voice box to the bronchi, allowing the passage of air to and from the lungs.
The second part, "pharyngeal", is derived from the Greek word "pharynx", which means "throat". The pharynx is a muscular passage situated behind the nasal cavity, mouth, and larynx, serving as a pathway for both air and food.
