Velopharyngeal Sphincter

A group of muscles attached to the SOFT PALATE (or velum) and the PHARYNX. They include the superior constrictor, the PALATOPHARYNGEUS, the levator veli palatini muscle, and the muscularis uvulae. This sphincter is situated between the oral and nasal cavities. A competent velopharyngeal sphincter is essential for normal speech and swallowing.

Year introduced: 2009

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Tree Number(s): A02.633.567.800.680, A04.623.617.680, A14.724.617.680

MeSH Unique ID: D055158

Entry Terms:

• Sphincter, Velopharyngeal
• Palatopharyngeal Sphincter
• Sphincter, Palatopharyngeal

Previous Indexing:

• Palate, Soft (1978-2008)
• Pharynx (1977-2008)

All MeSH Categories
Anatomy Category
Musculoskeletal System
Muscles
Muscle, Skeletal
Pharyngeal Muscles
Velopharyngeal Sphincter

All MeSH Categories
Anatomy Category
Respiratory System
Pharynx
Pharyngeal Muscles
Velopharyngeal Sphincter

All MeSH Categories
Anatomy Category
Stomatognathic System
Pharynx
Pharyngeal Muscles
Velopharyngeal Sphincter