The human throat contains the vallecula, a small depression located near the base of the tongue and the epiglottis. Despite its size, the vallecula plays a significant role in the bodily process of swallowing. Its precise location and function are important for safe food and liquid passage into the digestive tract.
What It Is and Where It’s Found
The vallecula is a shallow, mucosa-lined depression within the oropharynx, the middle part of the throat. It is positioned between the base of the tongue and the front surface of the epiglottis, which is a flap of cartilage. Due to its deep location at the root of the tongue, it is not visible to the naked eye.
The vallecula is divided into two distinct spaces by a median glossoepiglottic fold, with lateral glossoepiglottic folds forming its outer borders. While not a muscular structure itself, it is surrounded by various muscles of the oropharynx and larynx, contributing to its functional environment.
Its Role in Swallowing
The primary function of the vallecula is to facilitate the swallowing process. As food or liquid is pushed backward by the tongue during swallowing, it temporarily collects in this depression. This temporary holding allows for proper coordination of the swallowing reflex.
The vallecula acts as a temporary reservoir, holding saliva and occasionally food, which helps prevent the swallowing reflex from being constantly triggered, especially during sleep. When the bolus collects in the vallecula, it provides time for the epiglottis to fold down. This action seals off the larynx, ensuring that the food or liquid passes into the esophagus rather than entering the trachea, preventing choking and aspiration.
Common Issues and Medical Significance
Problems with the vallecula can impact an individual’s ability to swallow safely. One common issue is vallecular stasis, which occurs when food or liquid remains in the vallecula after a swallow. This can happen due to swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia. The sensation of something being stuck in the throat or coughing and choking during or after eating can indicate issues with vallecular clearance.
The vallecula also serves as an important anatomical landmark for medical professionals during certain procedures. For instance, in direct laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation, the vallecula guides the placement of instruments. Specific laryngoscope blades, like the Macintosh blade, are designed to be placed into the vallecula to lift the epiglottis, allowing a clear view of the vocal cords for tube insertion. Additionally, the vallecula can be affected by conditions such as vallecular cysts, which are typically benign but can cause a sensation of a foreign body or swallowing difficulties if they enlarge.