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Middle Pharyngeal Constrictor

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Original Author(s): Max Bidewell
Last updated: February 3, 2023
Revisions: 5

Original Author(s): Max Bidewell
Last updated: February 3, 2023
Revisions: 5

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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.

Fig 1 – Lateral view of the deep structures of the pharynx. Visible are the circular muscles of the pharynx, and the stylopharyngeus.