The middle pharyngeal constrictor is a muscle of the pharynx. It is the middle of the three pharyngeal constrictor muscles, and is located within the laryngopharynx.
- Attachments: Originates from the stylohyoid ligament and the hyoid bone. It inserts posteriorly onto the pharyngeal raphe.
- Action: Constricts the wall of the pharynx during swallowing to propel the food bolus downwards.
- Innervation: Vagus nerve
- Blood Supply: Pharyngeal branch of ascending pharyngeal artery with contributions from the tonsillar branch of facial artery.
By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2025)
Fig 1
Lateral view of the deep structures of the pharynx. Visible are the circular muscles of the pharynx, and the stylopharyngeus.