Hypopharynx: Anatomy, Histology and Pathology

Abstract

The hypopharynx extends from the level of the hyoid bone above to that of the lower border of the cricoid cartilage below. For purposes of classification of the position and extent of carcinoma the hypopharynx is divided into three areas: (a) pharyngo-oesophageal junction (postcricoid area) (b) piriform sinus and (c) posterior pharyngeal wall (Spiessl et al. 1982). The anatomical extent of each of these areas is given in Table 39.1.