Pharyngeal plexus of vagus nerve

Pharyngeal plexus of vagus nerve is a network of nerves located in the neck, specifically in the pharynx. It is formed by the vagus nerve, the glossopharyngeal nerve, and the sympathetic trunk. The plexus is responsible for supplying the muscles of the pharynx and soft palate, which are essential for swallowing and speech.

Etymology

The term "pharyngeal" is derived from the Greek word "pharynx" which means throat, and "plexus" is from the Latin word "plexus" which means braid. The term "vagus" is Latin for "wandering", which describes the path of the nerve from the brain to various parts of the body.

Anatomy

The pharyngeal plexus of the vagus nerve is located on the outer surface of the middle constrictor muscle of the pharynx. It is formed by branches of the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X), the glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX), and the sympathetic trunk. The plexus provides motor innervation to most of the muscles of the pharynx and soft palate, with the exception of the stylopharyngeus and tensor veli palatini muscles.

Function

The pharyngeal plexus of the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in swallowing and speech. It provides motor innervation to the muscles of the pharynx and soft palate, allowing for the proper functioning of these structures during the act of swallowing and the production of speech sounds.

Clinical significance

Damage to the pharyngeal plexus of the vagus nerve can result in a variety of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), voice changes, and loss of gag reflex. This can occur due to various conditions such as stroke, tumor, or surgery in the neck region.

See also

• Vagus nerve
• Glossopharyngeal nerve
• Pharynx
• Nervous system

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