Esophagus:
Anatomy & functions of the esophagus:
The esophagus is the hollow tube that leads from the throat (pharynx) into the stomach. The walls of the esophagus are lined with mucous membranes that propel food to the stomach by rhythmic waves of muscular contractions called peristalsis. Just below the junction of the throat and the esophagus is a band of muscle called the upper esophageal sphincter. Slightly above the junction of the esophagus and the stomach is another band of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter. When the esophagus is not in use, these sphincters contract so that food and stomach acid do not flow up from the stomach to the mouth. During swallowing, the sphincters relax so food can pass through the esophagus and into the stomachCommon esophageal disorders:
| University of Missouri Health Care | This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. |
