ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The oropharynx is the middle portion of the pharynx, working with both the respiratory and digestive systems. It opens anteriorly in the mouth and extends from the soft palate to the hyoid.

Detailed explanation-2: -The two sub-regions of the pharynx that are shared between the digestive system and respiratory system are the oropharynx and the laryngopharynx.

Detailed explanation-3: -human digestive system divisions of the pharynx: the oral pharynx, the nasal pharynx, and the laryngeal pharynx. The latter two are airways, whereas the oral pharynx is shared by both the respiratory and digestive tracts.

Detailed explanation-4: -The oropharynx is the portion of the pharynx that is posterior to the oral cavity. The most inferior portion of the pharynx is the laryngopharynx that extends from the hyoid bone down to the lower margin of the larynx. The upper part of the pharynx (throat) lets only air pass through.

Detailed explanation-5: -The opening of the mouth into the pharynx is the oropharynx, and the nasal opening is the nasopharynx. The eustachian tube from the middle ear (see Chapter 10, p. 167) opens into the pharynx on each side.