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Superior constrictor muscle (pharynx, anatomy)

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The superior constrictor muscle of the pharynx is one of the paired external muscles of the pharynx. It arises from several sites:

  • inferior two-thirds of medial pterygoid plate in continuity with the pterygoid hamulus
  • pterygomandibular raphe
  • posterior end of mylohyoid line on mandible

It inserts into the:

  • superior part of the median pharyngeal raphe
  • pharyngeal tubercle on the clivus of the occiput

Superior constrictor constricts the wall of the pharynx during swallowing.

It is innervated via the pharyngeal plexus.

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