Audio LecturePro Feature Salpingopharyngeus 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The salpingopharyngeus is a muscle of the pharynx. In addition to elevating the pharynx, this muscle also widens the Eustachian tube to help equalise the pressure in the middle ear. Attachments: Originates from the Eustachian tube and inserts onto the pharyngeal wall. Action: Elevation of the pharynx during swallowing. Innervation: Vagus nerve (CN X). Blood supply: Ascending palatine branch of facial artery, greater palatine branch of maxillary artery and the pharyngeal branch of ascending pharyngeal artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 3Posterior view of the pharynx. The pharynx has been split down the midline and opened, to show the longitudinal muscles. 3D ModelPro Feature You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Frequent questions What is the function of the salpingopharyngeus muscle? The salpingopharyngeus muscle elevates the pharynx and widens the Eustachian tube, aiding in pressure equalisation in the middle ear. This muscle plays a vital role during swallowing. Where does the salpingopharyngeus muscle originate and insert? This muscle originates from the Eustachian tube and inserts onto the pharyngeal wall. Its strategic placement facilitates its function in the pharynx. Which nerve innervates the salpingopharyngeus muscle? The salpingopharyngeus muscle is innervated by the vagus nerve (CN X). This innervation is crucial for its action during swallowing. What is the blood supply to the salpingopharyngeus muscle? The blood supply to the salpingopharyngeus comes from several arteries: the ascending palatine branch of the facial artery, the greater palatine branch of the maxillary artery, and the pharyngeal branch of the ascending pharyngeal artery. This vascularisation supports its function and health. How does the salpingopharyngeus muscle contribute to swallowing? During swallowing, the salpingopharyngeus muscle elevates the pharynx, which is essential for the swallowing process. Its action helps facilitate the passage of food and liquids. Rate This Article