Pharynx: Normal anatomy and function

Abstract

The pharynx should not be a mysterious area for the radiologist. The radiologist should understand the pharynx as well as any other organ. Testing of oral and pharyngeal swallowing should not be abandoned by Radiology and performed only by Speech Pathology. Radiology input is important during a barium swallow. A radiologist has a large global knowledge of neurological, head and neck, and esophageal disease. A radiologist has superior understanding of the fluoroscopic technique, barium products, and radiation safety.