The palatopharyngeal muscle in otolaryngology practice: an anatomical-based surgical report.

OBJECTIVES: The author discusses current otolaryngological procedures employing the palatopharyngeus muscle, based on the surgical anatomy of the muscle and its neural supply. These techniques should be deeply revised for more conservative, anatomically-based maneuvers.

METHODS: Revision of anatomical and surgical research and comments with the provision of a primary concept.

RESULTS: The palatopharyngeus muscle is innervated by the pharyngeal plexus (the vagus and the accessory nerves) with additional fibers from the lesser palatine nerves. The innervation enters the muscle mainly through its lateral border.

CONCLUSIONS: The palatopharyngeus muscle has a fundamental role in swallowing and speech. The muscle helps other dilators to maintain upper airway patency. Sphincter pharyngoplasty should be revised as regards its role as a sphincter. Palatopharyngeal procedures for OSA employing the palatopharyngeus muscle should follow the conservative, anatomically-based, and non-neural ablation concept.