Relating to or connecting the cricoid cartilage and the pharynx (the throat).
From 'cricoid' (ring-shaped cartilage) plus 'pharyngeal' (relating to the pharynx, from Greek pharynx). This anatomical term describes the relationship between two parts of the upper digestive and respiratory system.
The cricopharyngeal sphincter is a crucial valve between your pharynx and esophagus—it ensures food goes down the right pipe and air goes down the other, which is why people with swallowing disorders sometimes have problems here.
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