Pharynx and Larynx

Question 1

Name the layers of the fascia

Answer 1

The superficial layer and the deep layer. The deep layer can be further divided into the investing layer, the prevertebral layer, and the pretracheal layer

Question 2

Describe the superficial layer of fascia

Answer 2

The layer of subcutaneous fascia that containes superficial lymph nodes, cutaneous nerves, superficial veins, and platysma muscle

Question 3

Describe the deep layer of fascia

Answer 3

It has three layers that compartmentalize and support elements of the neck. This compartmentalization also allows elements to slide across one another during swallowing and neck movement.

Question 4

Describe the investing layer of the deep fascia

Answer 4

Deep fascia investing muscle. Includes the trapezius muscle, SCM, submandibular gland, and the parotid gland

Question 5

Describe the prevertebral layer of the deep fascia

Answer 5

Surrounds the vertebral column and associated deep muscles. Extends laterally to form the axillary sheath surrounding the brachial plexus and axillary artery.

Question 6

Describe the pretracheal layer of the deep fascia

Answer 6

Divided into the muscular layer (infrahyoid muscles) and the visceral layer (thyroid gland, trachea, esophagus; blends inferiorly with the pericardium; posteriorly it is called the buccopharyngeal fascia)

Question 7

Describe the alar fascia/carotid sheath

Answer 7

Derived from all three layers of deep fascia. Surrounds common and internal carotid arteries, internal jugular vein, CNX, carotid sinus nerve, and the sympathetic nerves on the vessels. It is part of the retropharyngeal space, below the hyoid bone.

Question 8

Describe the retropharyngeal space

Answer 8

The retropharyngeal space is posterior to the esophagus, between the prevertebral and buccopharyngeal fascia. It is occupied by loose connective tissue that allows the layers of deep fascia to slide across each other. This allows the esophagus to move in relation to the vertebral column during swallowing and neck movement. This also creates a space for spread of infection to the mediastinum.

Question 9

Name the three divisions of the pharynx

Answer 9

Nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx

Question 10

Name the constrictor muscles of the pharynx and the motor nerve that innervates them

Answer 10

Superior, middle, and inferior
CN X (motor)

Question 11

All six muscles of the pharynx are innervated by what?

Answer 11

The pharyngeal plexus

Question 12

The pharyngeal plexus is predominantly supplied by what nerve? With the exception of which muscle/nerve?

Answer 12

The vagus nerve

Stylopharyngeus/CN IX

Question 13

Which artery supplies the pharyngeal muscles?

Answer 13

The ascending pharyngeal artery which branches from the external carotid