What is the esophagus and what is its primary function?

The esophagus is a muscular tube (~25 cm long) that connects the pharynx in the neck to the stomach in the abdomen. Its main function is to transport food during swallowing (deglutition).

Where does the esophagus begin and end anatomically?

It begins at the lower border of the cricoid cartilage at the C6 vertebral level in the neck. It ends at the cardiac orifice of the stomach at the T11 vertebral level in the abdomen.

What are the anatomical constrictions of the esophagus and why are they important?

The esophagus has four constrictions measured from the upper incisor teeth: pharyngoesophageal junction (C6), crossing of the aortic arch (T4), crossing of the left principal bronchus (T6), and esophageal hiatus (T10). These are clinically important as common sites for foreign body lodgment, strictures, and carcinoma.

What are the three main parts of the esophagus?

The esophagus is divided into three parts based on location: cervical part (4 cm) from C6 to thoracic inlet, thoracic part (20 cm) from thoracic inlet to diaphragm, and abdominal part (1-2 cm) through diaphragm to stomach.

What structures are anterior and posterior to the thoracic esophagus?

Anterior relations include the trachea, aortic arch, left bronchus, and left atrium. Posterior relations include the vertebral column, thoracic duct, azygos veins, and descending aorta.

How does the muscular layer of the esophagus change along its length?

The muscular layer composition varies: upper third is skeletal muscle, middle third is mixed skeletal and smooth muscle, and lower third is smooth muscle. This transition facilitates the progression from voluntary to involuntary swallowing.

What is the clinical significance of esophageal varices?

Esophageal varices are dilated veins in the lower esophagus that develop due to portal hypertension. They occur at the site of portocaval anastomosis and pose a significant risk of life-threatening hematemesis (vomiting blood).

What nerves supply the esophagus?

The esophagus receives parasympathetic supply from the vagus nerve (via recurrent laryngeal and esophageal plexuses) for sensory, motor, and secretomotor functions, and sympathetic supply from T5-T9 spinal segments for vasomotor and sensory functions.

Esophagus (Thorax) – Relations & Constrictions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions