Cricofaríngeo

Cricopharyngeus is a muscle in the human throat. It is the inferior and most posterior of the three pharyngeal constrictor muscles. Located at the superior end of the esophagus, it forms the upper esophageal sphincter, also known as the cricopharyngeal sphincter. This sphincter plays a crucial role in preventing regurgitation of esophageal contents into the pharynx and in preventing air from entering the esophagus during breathing.

The cricopharyngeus muscle is innervated by the pharyngeal branch of the vagus nerve. Its primary function is to relax during swallowing, allowing food or liquid to pass from the pharynx into the esophagus. It then contracts to maintain the closure of the upper esophageal sphincter. Dysfunction of the cricopharyngeus muscle can lead to various swallowing difficulties, a condition known as dysphagia. These difficulties can include a sensation of a lump in the throat, choking, or aspiration, where food or liquid enters the airway. Issues with this muscle can arise from neurological conditions, trauma, or aging. Surgical or behavioral interventions may be used to address cricopharyngeal dysfunction.