The superior pharyngeal constrictor forms the muscular wall of the nasopharynx and oropharynx, contracting sequentially during the pharyngeal phase of swallowing. Passavant's ridge, formed by superior constrictor contraction, closes against the soft palate velum to prevent nasopharyngeal regurgitation. In cleft palate, Passavant's ridge compensates for velopharyngeal insufficiency.
| Origin | Pterygoid hamulus, pterygomandibular raphe, posterior end of the mylohyoid line, and side of the tongue |
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| Insertion | Median raphe of the posterior pharynx (pharyngeal tubercle of the occipital bone superiorly) |
| Nerve Supply | Pharyngeal plexus (IX and X) |
| Blood Supply | Ascending pharyngeal and tonsillar branches |
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It constricts the upper pharynx during swallowing and helps seal off the nasopharynx with the soft palate so food does not enter the nose.
Pharyngeal constrictor weakness from vagal or glossopharyngeal neuropathy (post-stroke, skull base tumour) produces pharyngeal dysphagia with nasopharyngeal regurgitation and aspiration risk. Pharyngeal manometry assesses constrictor strength during swallowing. Pharyngeal electrical stimulation (PES) rehabilitation targets the constrictors in post-stroke dysphagia.
Not palpable from the surface.
Superior constrictor weakness from neuropathy producing pharyngeal swallowing failure managed with swallowing therapy and nutritional support.
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