Bio 151 Pharynx Study Notes

● Thus, these sinuses are extensions of the nasal chambers into the skull bones

● For this reason, they are known as paranasal sinuses

● c. Pharynx

● The pharynx (FAIR-inks) is the common posterior space for the respiratory and digestive

systems

● (1) Nasopharynx

● That portion of the pharynx specifically related to the respiratory system is the

nasopharynx

● It is the portion of the pharynx above the soft palate

● The two posterior openings (nares) of the nasal chambers lead into the single space of

the nasopharynx

● The auditory (eustachian) tubes also open into the nasopharynx

● The auditory tubes connect the nasopharynx with the middle ears

● This will equalize the pressure between the outside and inside of the eardrum

● Lying in the upper posterior wall of the nasopharynx are the pharyngeal tonsils

(adenoids)

● The soft palate floor of the nasopharynx is a trapdoor which closes off the upper

respiratory passageways during swallowing

● (2) Oropharynx.

● The portion of the pharynx closely related to the digestive system is the oropharynx

● It is the portion of the pharynx below the soft palate and above the upper edge of the

epiglottis