The upper aerodigestive tract refers to the interconnected anatomical region through which both air and food/liquid pass. It includes the oral cavity, nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, and the upper esophagus. These structures coordinate for vital functions such as speaking, swallowing, and breathing. For example, during swallowing, the upper aerodigestive tract must route food/liquid into the esophagus while protecting the airway; during speech, airflow from the lungs is shaped by the pharynx, oral/nasal cavities, and larynx to produce sound and resonance.
Disorders of the upper aerodigestive tract can affect voice (e.g., laryngeal pathology), resonance (e.g., velopharyngeal insufficiency leading to hypernasality), and swallowing (dysphagia). Clinically, SLPs working with voice and swallowing are well-versed in upper aerodigestive tract anatomy and physiology – they might provide therapy for dysphagia post head-neck cancer treatment (addressing issues like xerostomia or fibrosis in this tract) or voice therapy for laryngeal dysfunction. A comprehensive understanding of the upper aerodigestive tract enables SLPs to collaborate with ENT physicians and other specialists in managing conditions like aspiration, dysphonia, or obstructive breathing during speech.
Robbins, J. (2011). Upper aerodigestive tract neurofunctional mechanisms: Lifelong evolution and exercise. Head & Neck, 33(S1), S30–S36. Link
Perlman, A. L., & Schulze‑Delrieu, K. A. (1997). Deglutition and Its Disorders: Anatomy, Physiology, Clinical Diagnosis, and Management. Singular Publishing Group.
