Difference Between Oesophagus and Trachea

The trachea and oesophagus are two tubular structures found in the human neck region. Despite the fact that they are adjacent structures, their functions are distinct. The trachea is part of the respiratory system, while the oesophagus is part of the digestive system. The primary distinction between the trachea and the oesophagus is that the trachea is the main bronchi or windpipe of humans, whereas the oesophagus is the food pipe that connects the pharynx to the stomach. The trachea is responsible for transporting air into and out of the lungs. The oesophagus is responsible for transporting food from the pharynx to the stomach.

Trachea

The main windpipe of the human respiratory system is the trachea. It has a nearly cylindrical shape. The trachea has a D-shaped cross-section. The trachea originates in the inferior part of the larynx. At the T4-5 vertebrae, it divides into left and right bronchi. The male trachea has a larger diameter than the female trachea. The trachea is approximately 11 cm long. The trachea has incomplete cartilaginous rings that run anteriorly and laterally. The posterior side, on the other hand, lacks those cartilaginous rings. These U-shaped rings are made of hyaline cartilage.

A typical trachea is made up of 15-20 cartilaginous rings. They keep the membranous tube from collapsing during inhalation. The carina is a keel-like partition located at the bottom of the trachea that separates the two bronchi.

Oesophagus

The oesophagus is a branch of the alimentary canal that connects the throat to the stomach. It transports food and liquids swallowed into the pharynx to the stomach. The oesophagus is approximately 25 cm long. The oesophagus is located behind the trachea. The oesophagus enters the stomach through the diaphragm’s esophageal hiatus. 

The structure that closes the upper esophageal opening is known as the upper esophageal sphincter. It opens during swallowing, allowing food to enter the oesophagus. Peristalsis refers to the wave-like muscle contractions of the oesophagus that move food through the oesophagus. Peristalsis is a component of the swallowing process.

The lower esophageal sphincter prevents food from moving backward from the stomach to the oesophagus. The contents of the stomach are emptied through the oesophagus when you vomit. It is critical to eliminate harmful substances from the body.

Followings Points About Trachea And oesophagus

There are significant differences between the oesophagus and the trachea. If you’re not sure what these two vital parts of the body are, read on to learn about the differences!

Functions: The first and most obvious distinction is that the trachea is part of the respiratory system, whereas the oesophagus is part of the digestive system. They serve distinct functions because they are part of different systems.

Structure: The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a strong and wide tube that aids in the transport of air to the bronchi. It is the most vital component of animals that breathe in through their lungs. Because it provides oxygen to the body, it is critical that the trachea remain open at all times. Some allergic reactions can cause tracheal inflammation. If the patient does not receive immediate medical attention, he will die. The oesophagus is smaller and more flexible in structure (consider the amount of food it must transport!). The passage of food from the mouth to the stomach cavity is caused by muscular movements of the oesophagus.

Length and Location: The trachea and the oesophagus are located in the same area. The epiglottis—a tiny flap that protects the trachea when you swallow something—keeps them apart!

The trachea is composed of a series of cartilaginous semicircular rings. These help to keep the trachea from collapsing. It ranges in length from 9 to 15 cm. They are situated in front of the oesophagus. The oesophagus is a 10-inch-long muscular tube.

Parts: Another distinction between the two is their structure. The trachea is divided into thoracic and cervical sections. It extends from one end of the larynx to the other.

The oesophagus, on the other hand, is divided into three sections: cervical, abdominal, and thoracic. It runs from the lower pharynx to the cardiac opening to the stomach. It has a number of constrictions right where it begins. Food particles can become lodged in these areas.

The oesophagus, on the other hand, has an incredibly flexible structure that allows it to swallow almost anything!

Conclusion

The trachea is part of the respiratory system, while the oesophagus is part of the digestive system. The primary distinction between the trachea and the oesophagus is that the trachea is the main bronchi or windpipe of humans, whereas the oesophagus is the food pipe that connects the pharynx to the stomach. The oesophagus is responsible for transporting food from the pharynx to the stomach. The main windpipe of the human respiratory system is the trachea. The trachea originates in the inferior part of the larynx. The carina is a keel-like partition located at the bottom of the trachea that separates the two bronchi.