See Also: sphincter of the pharyngeal isthmus(medicine)
pharyngeal branch of the ascending pharyngeal artery(medicine)
Herbal medicine (botanical medicine, herbology, phytomedicine)(health)
Mars(dictionary)
Mars(encyclopedia)
Mars(dictionary)
Mars(medicine)
Cafe de Mars(tourism)
Mars Chinese(tourism)
Mars, canals of(encyclopedia)

sphincter of the pharyngeal isthmus (medicine) and Mars (sh)


sphincter of the pharyngeal isthmus (medicine)


sphincter of the pharyngeal isthmus -->
palatopharyngeal sphincter


A constant band of the superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle which sweeps posteriorly from the anterolateral part of the superior surface of the palatine aponeurosis. It creates a visible ridge when the superior constrictor is contracted, meeting the elevated soft palate to seal off the pharyngeal isthmus during swallowing.

Synonym: pharyngeal ridge, sphincter of the pharyngeal isthmus, velopharyngeal sphincter.


Mars (sh)




Ancient Roman god of war and protector of Rome, second only to Jupiter in importance.

His festivals occurred in the spring (March) and fall (October). Until the time of Augustus, Mars had only two temples in Rome. His sacred spears were kept in a sanctuary; on the outbreak of war, the consul had to shake the spears, saying "Mars vigila!" ("Mars, awake!") Under Augustus, Mars became not only the guardian of Rome in its military affairs but the emperor's personal guardian. He was identified with the Greek god Ares.