The three constrictor muscles on each side are major contributors to the structure of the pharyngeal wall (Fig. 8.202 and Table 8.17) and their names indicate their position—superior, middle, and inferior constrictor muscles. Posteriorly, the muscles from each side are joined together by the pharyngeal raphe. Anteriorly, these muscles attach to bones, cartilages, and ligaments related to the lateral margins of the nasal and oral cavities and the larynx.