In the esophageal phase, what occurs to guide the bolus to the stomach?

Prepare for the Praxis Dysphagia Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, designed to provide explanations and hints. Equip yourself with the knowledge needed for your examination!

Multiple Choice

In the esophageal phase, what occurs to guide the bolus to the stomach?

Explanation:
During the esophageal phase, propulsion of the bolus relies on coordinated esophageal peristalsis—wave-like contractions that push the bolus downward. Before this movement can begin, the upper esophageal sphincter must relax to admit the bolus into the esophagus. Once inside, the peristaltic waves carry the bolus toward the stomach, and at the distal end the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow entry into the stomach. The key idea captured here is the opening of the upper sphincter to enter the esophagus plus the esophageal peristaltic motion that moves the bolus downward toward the stomach.

During the esophageal phase, propulsion of the bolus relies on coordinated esophageal peristalsis—wave-like contractions that push the bolus downward. Before this movement can begin, the upper esophageal sphincter must relax to admit the bolus into the esophagus. Once inside, the peristaltic waves carry the bolus toward the stomach, and at the distal end the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow entry into the stomach. The key idea captured here is the opening of the upper sphincter to enter the esophagus plus the esophageal peristaltic motion that moves the bolus downward toward the stomach.

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