Title: Cricopharyngeal dysfunction (CPD) - Laryngopedia
Headings: Cricopharyngeal dysfunction (CPD)
Cricopharyngeal dysfunction (CPD)
Symptoms and treatment for cricopharyngeal dysfunction:
Photos:
Cricopharyngeal dysfunction, before and after myotomy: Series of 2  photos
Very high-pitched voice elicits the same pharynx contraction as swallowing: Series of 4  photos
Cricopharyngeal dysfunction, before and after myotomy: Series of 2  photos
Cricopharyngeal dysfunction, with incipient Zenker’s: Series of 1  photo
Reflux into hypopharynx, characteristic of cricopharyngeal dysfunction: Series of 3  photos
Cricopharyngeus non-relaxation and Zenker's sac seen during VESS: Series of 4  photos

Content: Cricopharyngeal dysfunction (CPD) - Laryngopedia
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Cricopharyngeal dysfunction (CPD)
Failure of the tonically contracted upper esophageal sphincter to relax and open when one swallows. Cricopharyngeal dysfunction is also known as cricopharyngeal achalasia. The cause is usually unknown. The upper esophageal sphincter is also known as the cricopharyngeus muscle and is located at the lower level of the voicebox or larynx. This muscle is always contracted except at the moment of swallowing, when it relaxes briefly to let food or liquid pass through. Symptoms and treatment for cricopharyngeal dysfunction: Typically, individuals with cricopharyngeal dysfunction first notice that pills or solid food begin to lodge at the level of the lower part of the larynx. The problem tends to progress inexorably, though often slowly, as the years pass, until the individual must limit himself or herself to liquid and soft foods. Cricopharyngeal dysfunction is fully resolved through a straightforward surgical procedure ( cricopharyngeal myotomy ), performed through the mouth with the laser or, only occasionally, through a neck incision. See also: