The salpingopharyngeus muscle arises from the inferior part of the cartilage of the pharyngotympanic tube (Eustachian tube) in the nasal cavity; it passes downward and blends with the posterior fasciculus of the palatopharyngeus muscle. The salpingopharyngeus is known to raise the pharynx and larynx during deglutition (swallowing) and laterally draws the pharyngeal walls up. In addition, it opens the pharyngeal orifice of the pharyngotympanic tube during swallowing. This allows for the equalization of pressure between the auditory canal and the pharynx. The salpingopharyngeus is innervated by the vagus nerve (CN X) via the pharyngeal plexus. [ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salpingopharyngeus_muscle ]