Praxis Dysphagia Practice Test

In the esophageal phase, what occurs to guide the bolus to the stomach?

Relaxation/opening of the lower esophageal sphincter and esophageal peristalsis Early initiation of the oral phase Closure of the epiglottis Relaxation/opening of the UES and esophageal peristalsis

Correct Answer:

Relaxation/opening of the UES and esophageal peristalsis

Explanation:

During the esophageal phase, propulsion of the bolus relies on coordinated esophageal peristalsis—wave-like contractions that push the bolus downward. Before this movement can begin, the upper esophageal sphincter must relax to admit the bolus into the esophagus. Once inside, the peristaltic waves carry the bolus toward the stomach, and at the distal end the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow entry into the stomach. The key idea captured here is the opening of the upper sphincter to enter the esophagus plus the esophageal peristaltic motion that moves the bolus downward toward the stomach.

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