oropharyngeal anatomy

The oropharynx is the part of the throat located behind the mouth, extending from the soft palate to the level of the same level as the upper part of the throat called the epiglottis. It includes structures like the back of the tongue, tonsils, and the walls of the pharynx. This area plays a key role in swallowing and breathing, as well as in the immune response through the tonsils. It connects the mouth to the lower parts of the throat and is lined with mucous membrane, helping to protect against infection while allowing passage of air and food.