Corpus: Pharyngeal plexus
1. Definition
The pharyngeal plexus is a network of nerves located in the pharynx. It is formed by contributions from the glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX), the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X), and additional nerve fibers.
The term "pharyngeal plexus" can also refer to the pharyngeal venous plexus.
2. Anatomy
The pharyngeal plexus is located on the surface of the middle pharyngeal constrictor muscle. It receives fibers from the following structures:
- Pharyngeal branch of the vagus nerve
- Pharyngeal branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve
- External branch of the superior laryngeal nerve
- Superior cervical ganglion
3. Function
The pharyngeal plexus provides the following functions:
- Motor function: It innervates the entire pharyngeal musculature, except for the stylopharyngeus muscle, and most of the muscles of the soft palate (e.g., the levator veli palatini and uvula muscles).
- Sensory function: It supplies the mucous membrane of the pharynx and is responsible for triggering the gag reflex
- Autonomic (vegetative) function: It regulates the glands of the pharyngeal mucosa