The stylopharyngeus is a muscle of the pharynx. It is unique amongst the pharyngeal muscles in that it is innervated by the glossopharyngeal nerve and not the vagus nerve.
- Attachments: Originates from the styloid process of the temporal bone and inserts onto the pharyngeal wall
- Action: Elevates the pharynx during swallowing
- Innervation: Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX).
- Blood supply: Pharyngeal branch of the ascending pharyngeal artery (branch of external carotid artery).
By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2024)
Fig 2 – Lateral view of the deep structures of the pharynx. Visible are the circular muscles of the pharynx, and the stylopharyngeus.