Levator veli palatini

The levator veli palatini is the primary muscle responsible for elevating the soft palate. It extends from the from the base of the skull to the palatine aponeurosis. It is situated posterior and medial to the tensor veli palatini muscle.

Anatomical features

1. Origin

• Petrous part of the temporal bone (anterior to the opening of the carotid canal).

• Cartilaginous part of the pharyngotympanic (auditory) tube.

2. Insertion

The fibres descend inferomedially to insert into the superior surface of the palatine aponeurosis, blending with fibres from the opposite side.

Actions

• Elevates the soft palate during swallowing and phonation.

• Closes the pharyngeal isthmus, separating the nasopharynx from the oropharynx.

• Works in coordination with the tensor veli palatini, which tenses the soft palate before it is elevated.

• By lifting the soft palate and creating a seal against the posterior pharyngeal wall, the levator veli palatini ensures that food and liquid are directed downward into the oropharynx rather than upward into the nasopharynx. It is therefore essential for effective swallowing and clear speech production.

Clinical correlate

• Paralysis of the levator veli palatini (e.g., from a vagus nerve lesion) causes the soft palate to droop on the affected side and the uvula to deviate to the opposite side. This may result in velopharyngeal insufficiency, nasal regurgitation, and hypernasal speech.