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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 5, 2026

Coordinate Mapping of Hyolaryngeal Mechanics in Swallowing
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Upper esophageal sphincter opening and modulation during swallowing.

P Jacob1, P J Kahrilas, J A Logemann

  • 1Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.

Gastroenterology
|December 1, 1989
PubMed
Summary

Upper esophageal sphincter opening is an active mechanical process modulated by bolus volume during swallowing. Larger volumes increase opening duration and flow rate for efficient transsphincteric transport.

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Biomechanics
  • Swallowing Physiology

Background:

  • Understanding upper esophageal sphincter (UES) function during swallowing is crucial for diagnosing and treating dysphagia.
  • Previous studies have not fully elucidated the biomechanical events governing UES opening and its modulation by bolus volume.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To biomechanically analyze upper esophageal sphincter opening and its volume-dependent modulation during the dynamic process of swallowing.

Main Methods:

  • Synchronized videofluoroscopy and manometry were used in 8 normal subjects.
  • Hyoid/larynx movements, UES dimensions, and intraluminal pressure were measured during swallows of varying liquid barium volumes (1-20 ml).

Main Results:

  • UES opening is an active mechanical event, preceded by relaxation and followed by distention modulated by intrabolus pressure.
  • Sphincter opening and closing timing related to hyoid movement remained constant across bolus volumes.
  • Larger bolus volumes increased intrabolus pressure, bolus head velocity, and UES opening duration, delaying pharyngeal peristalsis onset.

Conclusions:

  • Transsphincteric transport of larger bolus volumes is achieved by modulating UES diameter, opening duration, and flow rate.
  • UES opening is an active mechanical event, not solely a passive consequence of cricopharyngeal relaxation.