An analysis of the way the pharyngeal musculature modulates the caliber of
the pharynx is important to better understand and treat obstructive sleep a
pnea syndromes. The caliber of the pharynx at the soft palate depends on th
e action of the tensor veli, the palatoglossus, the palatopharyngeus and th
e uvula muscles. At the ligual level, the action of the genioglossus and th
e geniohyoideus predominate. These different muscle groups contract in co-o
rdination before the diaphragm contracts. Their activity is diminished and
disorganized during sleep. These muscles appears to have a histological com
position adapted to short-duration intense contractions making them vulnera
ble to fatigue. Ii I apneic patients, these muscles are solicited constantl
y. Muscular lesions related to overwork have been suggested. The histologic
al composition of these muscles is modified in apneic patients compared wit
h non-apneic subjects (increased number of type IIa fibres), the expression
of an adaptive process. The degree of adaptation varies depending of the p
haryngeal level considered. Similar to their reflex stimulation, the respon
se of these pharyngeal muscles to increased resistance is probably greatest
at the soft palate level. Greater solicitation of palatine muscles associa
ted with their greater vulnerability to fatigue could explain why obstructi
on is particularly important at this level. A study of the mechanical and h
istological properties of the pharyngeal musculature is required for a bett
er understanding of the occlusive mechanisms of the upper airways and must
be undertaken before initiating therapeutic stimulation of these muscles.