Stylopharyngeus is the only muscle in the body innervated exclusively by the glossopharyngeal nerve. It passes between the external and internal carotid arteries, a key landmark for surgical anatomy of the carotid bifurcation.
An expanded entry for Stylopharyngeus.
| Origin | Medial surface of the styloid process base |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Lateral wall of the pharynx, blending with the pharyngeal constrictors and palatopharyngeus |
| Nerve Supply | Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX), the only muscle innervated exclusively by CN IX |
| Blood Supply | Ascending pharyngeal artery |
| Actions |
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It elevates and widens the pharynx during swallowing.
Stylopharyngeus passing between the external and internal carotid arteries is the landmark for CN IX identification in carotid endarterectomy and skull base surgery. Its exclusive CN IX innervation makes it the testing muscle for CN IX motor function.
Not directly palpable externally.
Identification of stylopharyngeus between the external and internal carotid arteries as the reference for CN IX in carotid endarterectomy and deep parotid dissection.
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