Uvula of palate
Uvula palatina
- Related terms: Uvula
Definition
The uvula of palate is a conical midline projection that hangs from the free posterior border of the soft palate. It contains the musculus uvulae, covered by mucous membrane. It is covered by stratified squamous epithelium on it oral surface.
Innervation
Motor: Pharyngeal plexus via the vagus nerve (CN X)
Sensory: Lesser palatine nerves (CN V2)
Functions
The uvula assists closure of the nasopharynx during swallowing, thus helping direct food away from nasopharynx. It also contributes to speech resonance and phonation.
Clinical correlate
In vagus nerve palsy, the uvula deviates away from the side of the lesion.
References
Helwany, M. and Rathee, M. (2024) Anatomy, Head and Neck, Palate. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: NCBI Bookshelf (Accessed: 18 May 2026).
Helwany M, Rathee M. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Palate. [Updated 2023 Jun 5]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557817/
