Skeleton of larynx

 

The larynx is a complex structure located in the neck that houses the vocal cords and plays a crucial role in speech and breathing. It consists of several cartilages and ligaments that form the skeletal framework of the larynx. Let's explore the skeleton of the larynx in detail:

**1. Thyroid Cartilage:**

- The largest cartilage of the larynx, resembling a shield or "Adam's apple" in males.

- Consists of two fused plates called laminae, which meet at the midline forming the laryngeal prominence.

- Superiorly, the thyroid cartilage articulates with the hyoid bone via the hyothyroid membrane.

**2. Cricoid Cartilage:**

- A complete ring of cartilage that forms the base of the larynx.

- Sits just below the thyroid cartilage and forms a joint with it, allowing for limited movement during swallowing.

**3. Arytenoid Cartilages:**

- A pair of pyramid-shaped cartilages located on top of the cricoid cartilage.

- Articulate with the posterior surface of the cricoid cartilage, allowing for rotation and gliding movements that control vocal cord tension.

**4. Corniculate Cartilages:**

- Small, horn-like cartilages located on top of the arytenoid cartilages.

- Serve to support the aryepiglottic folds, which help close the larynx during swallowing.

**5. Cuneiform Cartilages:**

- Small, rod-shaped cartilages located within the aryepiglottic folds, providing additional support.

**6. Epiglottis:**

- A leaf-shaped cartilage located at the base of the tongue, just above the larynx.

- During swallowing, the epiglottis tilts backward to cover the glottis, preventing food and liquids from entering the airway.

**7. Hyoid Bone:**

- Not technically a part of the larynx, but it plays an important role in supporting and suspending the larynx.

- The hyoid bone is located above the thyroid cartilage and is connected to it by the thyrohyoid membrane.

**Clinical Significance:**

- The anatomy of the larynx is essential for understanding its functions and diagnosing and treating various laryngeal disorders, such as vocal cord nodules, laryngitis, and laryngeal cancer.

- Any abnormalities or injuries to the laryngeal cartilages can affect vocal cord function and lead to voice changes or difficulty breathing.

In conclusion, the larynx's skeletal framework consists of cartilages, ligaments, and the hyoid bone, all of which contribute to its functions in speech and respiration. Understanding the anatomy of the larynx is crucial for medical professionals dealing with voice and swallowing disorders.

MCQs on Larynx Anatomy

Q1. The largest cartilage of the larynx is:

Q2. The thyroid cartilage forms a joint with which cartilage?

Q3. The cuneiform cartilages are located within the:

Q4. The laryngeal prominence is formed by the fusion of:

Q5. The hyoid bone is connected to the thyroid cartilage by:

Q6. The arytenoid cartilages are located on top of the:

Q7. The epiglottis tilts backward to cover the glottis during:

Q8. The corniculate cartilages support the:

Q9. The larynx is responsible for:

Q10. The cuneiform cartilages provide support to the: