swallowing (deglutition)

Introduction

A complex sequence of events resulting in transfer of food from the mouth to the stomach without regurgitation or aspiration. Swallowing is orchestrated by the medullary swallowing center coordinating contractions of muscles in the pharynx, larynx & esophagus. Cranial nerve 9 & cranial nerve 10 provide innervation.

Pharyngeal swallowing consists of a coordinated series of voluntary movements of tongue propulsion of the bolus & elevation of the soft palate with involuntary upper esophageal relaxation, laryngeal closure & pharyngeal clearance.

In the body of the esophagus, intramural nerves generate peristaltic contraction initiated by the swallow. Relaxation of the tonically contracted lower esophageal sphincter allows the bolus to pass into the stomach.

More general terms

• physiologic process

Additional terms

• barium swallow; modified barium swallow study; barium esophagraphy (BSS, MBSS)
• dysphagia (swallowing disorder)
• lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
• video esophagography; videofluoroscopy; cine esophagraphy