Palatopharyngeal arch
Arcus palatopharyngeus
- Latin synonym: Plica posterior faucium
- Synonym: Palatopharyngeal fold; Posterior pillar of fauces
- Related terms: Palatopharyngeal arch; Posterior pillar of fauces
Definition
The palatopharyngeal arch is a mucosal fold that extends from the soft palate downward to the lateral wall of the pharynx. It forms the posterior pillar of the fauces and contains the palatopharyngeus muscle beneath its mucous membrane.
The palatopharyngeal arch lies posterior to the palatoglossal arch, and the space between the two arches forms the tonsillar fossa, which contains the palatine tonsil.
Function
The palatopharyngeus muscle helps elevate the pharynx and larynx during swallowing and contributes to closure of the oropharyngeal isthmus. It also assists in directing food downward into the pharynx during deglutition.
The palatopharyngeal arch forms part of the lateral boundary of the oropharynx and is an important landmark during examination of the oral cavity and throat.
Innervation
Motor innervation to the palatopharyngeus muscle is supplied through the pharyngeal plexus via the vagus nerve.
References
Standring, S. (2015) Grays Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st edn. London: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier. Chapter 31, Oral cavity.
