Pharyngeal opening of auditory tube
Ostium pharyngeum tubae auditivae
Definition
The pharyngeal opening of the auditory tube is the entrance of the auditory tube into the nasal part of the pharynx. It is located at the dorsolateral aspect of the nasopharynx.
The pharyngeal opening of the auditory tube is most of the time closed at rest and opens during activities such as swallowing and yawning. Opening is obtained by the action of the tensor veli palatini and levator veli palatini muscles. This mechanism is essential for maintaining middle ear ventilation and pressure regulation.
References
Constantinescu GM, Schaller O. Illustrated veterinary anatomical nomenclature, 3rd Edition, Enke Verlag, Stuttgart, 2012.
