The Esophagus

The esophagus is a muscular tube in the chest. It's about 10 inches (25 centimeters) long.

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

The wall of the esophagus has several layers:

• Inner layer or lining: The lining (mucosa) of the esophagus is wet, which helps food to pass to the stomach.
  
• Submucosa: Glands in the submucosa layer make mucus, which helps keep the lining of the esophagus wet.
  
• Muscle layer: The muscles push food down to the stomach.
  
• Outer layer: The outer layer covers the esophagus.