hypopharynxlarngopharynx

Hypopharynx is the most inferior part of the pharynx, a muscular tube that forms part of the throat. It extends from the upper border of the epiglottis down to the lower border of the cricoid cartilage, where it becomes continuous with the esophagus. The hypopharynx is also known as the laryngopharynx because it is situated posterior to the larynx. It is lined with stratified squamous epithelium and plays a crucial role in swallowing, acting as a conduit for food and liquids from the oropharynx to the esophagus.

Anatomically, the hypopharynx is divided into three main regions. The pharyngoepiglottic region is the uppermost part, located superiorly and laterally to the epiglottis. The pyriform sinuses are two deep, pear-shaped recesses that lie on either side of the larynx, extending from the lateral wall of the hypopharynx. The esophageal entrance is the lowest part of the hypopharynx, where it narrows to meet the esophagus. These anatomical divisions are important for understanding the spread of diseases and for surgical approaches.

The hypopharynx contains several structures, including the aryepiglottic folds, the interarytenoid notch, and the opening of the esophagus. It is innervated by branches of the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves, which control its muscular contractions during swallowing. Blood supply is derived from branches of the external carotid artery. Diseases affecting the hypopharynx can include cancer, inflammation, and benign growths, often presenting with symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, voice changes, and neck pain.