Phonatory system Anatomy- cartilaginous framework

what does the larynx consist of?

cartilage and muscle. Cartilage = firm, elastic, flexible , connective tissue- as we age becomes more bone like

what are the main laryngeal cartilages- minor

corniculate and cunieform

cricoid cartilage (l.ring-like) location

top of trachea via cricotracheal membrane/ligament

what are the landmarks of the cricoid cartilage : Two articulators

arytenoids and thyroid

what are articular facets?

small flat surface on bone of cartilage for articulating with another structure

articular facet for arytenoids

Located: posterior-superior border of cricoid

articular facet for thyroid

located: lateral surface of cricoid.

what does the articular facet for the arytenoid do?

Provide articulating surface for cricoarytenoid joint

what are the main laryngeal cartilages- major- most functional

cricoid, thyroids, arytenoids, epiglottis

what does landmark mean? (important for understanding the cartilages )

distinct, noticeable feature of anatomical structure

what does the articular facet for the thyroid do?

Provide articulating surface for cricoarythyroid joint

thyroid cartilage location G= shield

just above cricoid. just below hyoid

thyroid cartilage landmarks

Superior cornu (horn), inferior cornu, notch, prominence

superior cornu

attach to hyoid ligament and membrane

inferior cornu

articulates with lateral facets of cricoid

Contributes to cricothyroid joint--> allows for shortening and lengthening of vfs

notch

prominent slot on top edge of thyroid

prominence (adams apple)

large protrusion below thyroid notch

arytenoids gk. funnel shaped

2 small cartilages
shaped like a pyramid

arytenoids location

posterior superior border of cricoid.

what does the cricoarytenoid joint allow?

opening and closing movement of vocal folds

landmarks for arytenoids

apex, muscular process, and vocal process

apex

superior projection- point of attachment for muscles
- capped by corniculate

muscular process= prominence or projection

posterior projection
point of attachment for several muscles

larynx: posterior view- with/without muscular process

vocal process

Anterior projection
Point of attachment for vocal ligament and vocal fold muscles

What is the definition of 'epiglottis'?

Epi = on or upon; glottis = space between vocal folds

leaf like shape appearance

In what view of the living larynx is the epiglottis often visible?

Superior view

epiglottis location

just below thyroid notch on inside of thyroid cartilage

epiglottis main function

protect airway. Covers up trachea so food only goes down espophagus

picture of all the laryngeal cartilages in place