Pharynx Sagittal Anatomy

A midsagittal section showing the three parts of the pharynx: the nasopharynx with the opening of the auditory tube, the oropharynx behind the tongue and soft palate, and the laryngopharynx leading to the oesophagus. The larynx is shown with the epiglottis, vestibular and vocal folds, and the hyoid, thyroid and cricoid cartilages.

These relations matter for swallowing physiology, sedation and medical emergencies. During swallowing the soft palate closes off the nasopharynx and the larynx rises under the epiglottis. In an airway emergency, the cricothyroid membrane between the thyroid and cricoid cartilages is the site for emergency access. Aspirated objects in adults more often enter the right main bronchus, which is wider and more vertical.