gullet

The gullet, or esophagus, is the muscular tube that transports food and liquids from the pharynx to the stomach. In humans, it lies posterior to the trachea and heart and extends from the neck, through the thorax, and into the abdomen by passing through the diaphragm.

Structure: The esophageal wall is about 25 cm long in adults and consists of mucosa with nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium, a submucosa, and a muscularis externa arranged in inner circular and outer longitudinal layers. The upper and lower sphincters regulate bolus entry and passage, helping coordinate swallowing and preventing reflux.

Function: Swallowing triggers coordinated peristaltic waves that propel the bolus toward the stomach. Glands in the submucosa secrete mucus to lubricate and protect the lining during transit through the esophagus.

Nerve supply and blood flow: The esophagus receives innervation from the vagus nerves and other autonomic fibers. It is supplied by esophageal branches of the aorta, left gastric, and inferior phrenic arteries, and drained by corresponding venous channels. Lymph drainage follows regional mediastinal and abdominal nodes, reflecting its segmental anatomy.

Clinical relevance: Common disorders affecting the gullet include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophagitis, strictures, Barrett's esophagus, achalasia, esophageal cancer, and foreign-body obstructions. These conditions can impact swallowing, cause pain, or affect nutritional status.

Terminology: The term "gullet" is a nontechnical or general term for the esophagus; in medical contexts, the term esophagus is preferred.