Structure/Morphology
The uvula is a portion of the soft palate that projects inferiorly in the midline. It's coated in mucosa and contains small salivary glands that contribute to keeping the mucosa of the soft palate moist. It also contains a muscle called musculus uvulae.
Related parts of the anatomy
Key Features/Anatomical Relations
The uvula moves in a posterosuperior direction during swallowing to close off the nasopharynx.
List of Clinical Correlates
- Gag reflex
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Uvula
The musculus uvulae is a delicate slip of muscle that attaches to the posterior nasal spine and palatine aponeurosis and inserts into the mucosa of the uvula.
