Microscopic relation of palatopharyngeus with levator veli palatini and superior constrictor

The aim of this study was to elucidate microscopic relation between the levator veli palatini, palatopharyngeus (PP), and superior constrictor (SC) muscle in transverse, parasagittal, and coronal sections.In 10 Korean adult cadavers, the entire soft palate was removed, trimmed, and preserved in 10% neutral buffered formalin. Specimens were embedded in paraffin and sectioned at a thickness of 10 mum. Blocks were cut the course of levator veli palatini. Also, transverse, parasagittal, and coronal section were made, stained using Masson trichrome, and observed under light microscope.Levator veli palatini was inserted between mucous gland anteriorly and musculus uvulae posteriorly in the midline of the soft palate, where they interdigitated with those in the contralateral side. Palatopharyngeus originated from the palatine aponeurosis and posterior mucosa of the soft palate. Most of the fibers of the PP did not cross the midline in their origin; however, some fibers interdigitated across the midline. As PP went downward and crossed the levator, it divided into anterior fasciculus and posterior fasciculus. Anterior fasciculus was thick and went downward along the anterolateral side of the levator. Posterior fasciculus was thin and widely spread along the posteromedial side of levator. Below the levator, 2 fasciculi united and were inserted to the medial side of SC. There were close attachment between the PP and SC.A detailed understanding of the microscopic relationship between the levator veli palatini, PP, and SC muscle is desirable for performing pharyngeal flap surgeries.