Which structure DOESN’T pass through the gap between superior and middle constrictor muscle of pharynx
**Core Concept**
The pharynx has three constrictor muscles: superior, middle, and inferior. These muscles form a muscular wall that separates the pharynx into three parts: nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx. The superior and middle constrictor muscles are located in the oropharynx and play a crucial role in swallowing by propelling food into the esophagus.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the anatomy of the pharynx and the passage of structures through the gap between the superior and middle constrictor muscles. The superior laryngeal nerve, internal laryngeal branch, and the internal carotid artery are known to pass through this gap. However, the recurrent laryngeal nerve does not pass through this gap. Instead, it passes through the gap between the middle and inferior constrictor muscles.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Incorrect because the superior laryngeal nerve, internal laryngeal branch, and the internal carotid artery do pass through the gap between the superior and middle constrictor muscles.
* **Option B:** Incorrect because the recurrent laryngeal nerve does not pass through the gap between the superior and middle constrictor muscles.
* **Option C:** Incorrect because the hypoglossal nerve does not pass through the gap between the superior and middle constrictor muscles.
* **Option D:** Incorrect because the glossopharyngeal nerve does pass through the gap between the superior and middle constrictor muscles.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember the "4 Ps" of pharyngeal constrictor muscles: the passage of the internal carotid artery, the internal laryngeal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve, the pharyngeal plexus, and the pharyngeal branches of the glossopharyngeal nerve.
**Correct Answer:** B. Recurrent laryngeal nerve.