Esophagus
The esophagus connects the nose and mouth with the stomach. The epiglottis folds over the trachea when a swallow occurs, to prevent the swallowed substance from being inhaled into the lungs. When a person is unable to swallow because of illness or coma, a tube may be inserted either through the mouth or nose, past the epiglottis, into the esophagus and into the stomach. Nutrients will be passed through the tube directly into the stomach.
Related Images
Esophagus and Stomach Anatomy
Related Articles
Esophagitis Traumatic Nasogastric or Endotracheal Intubation
Review Date : 2/13/2002
Reviewed By : A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team
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