Corpus: Salpingopharyngeus muscle
1. Definition
The salpingopharyngeus muscle is part of the pharyngeal musculature. Along with the stylopharyngeus and palatopharyngeus muscles, it raises the pharynx.
2. Course
2.1. Origin
The salpingopharyngeus muscle originates from the lower part of the auditory tube cartilage.
2.2. Attachment
The muscle extends steeply downward and blends with the fibers of the palatopharyngeus muscle in the lateral pharyngeal wall.
3. Innervation
The salpingopharyngeus muscle is innervated by the pharyngeal plexus, which is composed of fibers from the glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX) and the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X).
4. Function
During swallowing, the salpingopharyngeus muscle works in conjunction with the more powerful pharyngeal muscles, such as the palatopharyngeus and stylopharyngeus, to assist in elevating the pharynx. Its origin at the auditory tube cartilage allows it to widen the opening of the auditory tube, facilitating pressure equalization in the middle ear during actions like swallowing or yawning — a phenomenon often noticed during airplane landings.
5. Variety
Although typically present, the salpingopharyngeus muscle can occasionally be absent in some individuals.