Anatomy and physiology of the upper airway.
Normal respiration involves a highly detailed neurophysiologic process that results in the exchange of inspired and expired air through various anatomic structures. An understanding of these structures is important to the clinician involved in maintaining or reestablishing the normal airway. The following anatomic discussion focuses on the features crucial for the establishment and maintenance of a tracheal airway.
Isaacs
Richard S
RS
Kaiser-Permanente Medical Centers, Northern California, USA. richard.isaacs@kp.org
Sykes
Jonathan M
JM
D006801:Humans; D007830:Larynx / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology; D009296:Nasal Cavity / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D009666:Nose / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D010614:Pharynx / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology; D012143:Respiratory Physiological Phenomena