Neural Basis of Swallowing

What are the four stages of swallowing and what is the correct order of the stages?

Answer explanation

Stages of Swallowing

1. Oral preparatory

2. Oral transport phase

3. Pharyngeal transport phase

4. Oesophageal transport phase

Which of the following options are subcortical structures involved in swallowing? Select all that apply.

• Primary motor cortex

• Primary somatosensory cortex

• Basal ganglia

• Limbic structures

• Cranial nerves

Nucleus ambiguous is a group of motor neurons located in the medulla. Which cranial nerves are included under nucleus ambiguous?

• CN VIII

• CN VI

• CN IX

• CN X

Nucleus tractus solitarius is a group of sensory neurons involved in taste. Which cranial nerves are included under nucleus tractus solitarius?

• CN IV

• CN IX

• CN VII

• CN X

How many of the 12 cranial nerves play a role in swallowing?

• 10

• 7

• 5

• 3

What is the role of the trigeminal nerve in swallowing?

Answer explanation

Trigeminal Nerve

Motor: Muscles of mastication (chewing)

Sensory: Facial and mouth sensation

Which of the following structures of swallowing does the hypoglossal (CN XII) innervate?

• Muscles of the tongue

• Larynx, pharynx, soft palate

• Muscles of mastication

• Face and mouth sensation

Which of the following cranial nerves is responsible for saliva production? Select all that apply.

• Facial nerve

• Trigeminal nerve

• Glossopharyngeal nerve

• Hypoglossal nerve

Rhythmic motor patterns combine voluntary and reflexive actions ie. chewing

• True

• False

Match the following classes of movement with their appropriate description.

• Chewing, walking, running

• Voluntary

• Goal orientated, improve with practise

• Rhythmic

• Innate, triggered by external stimulus

• Reflexive