The Esophagus

The esophagus is in the chest. It's about 10 inches long.

This organ is part of the digestive tract. Food moves from the mouth through the esophagus to the stomach.

The esophagus is a muscular tube. The wall of the esophagus has several layers:

• Inner layer or lining (mucosa): The lining of the esophagus is moist so that food can pass to the stomach.
• Submucosa: The glands in this layer make mucus. Mucus keeps the esophagus moist.
• Muscle layer: The muscles push the food down to the stomach.
• Outer layer: The outer layer covers the esophagus.