Swallowing Before and After Partial Removal of the Uvula
An illustration displaying the sagittal view of the mouth and throat comparing swallowing before and after the partial removal of the uvula. Normal swallowing shows contraction of the tongue and pharyngeal muscles to push bolus of food and fluid down into the esophagus. When approximately 75% of the uvula is removed, there is no interference with swallowing. Anatomy highlighted in this view includes the soft palate, uvula, pharynx, esophagus, and the tongue.
