Framework of the larynx (bone(s) and cartilage(s)) (7):
Hyoid bone
Epiglottis
– leaf-like cartilage that acts as a protective structure when it inverts to cover the laryngeal opening during swallowing
Thyroid cartilage
– largest of the laryngeal cartilages
Arytenoid cartilages
Corniculate cartilages
– sit at the apex of the arytenoid cartilages, horn-like shaped
Cuneiform Cartilages
– paired wedge-shaped rods embedded within the aryepiglottic folds
Cricoid cartilage
– complete ring sitting on top of the trachea, on lateral view it gives the appearance of a signet ring (back arches up relative to the front)
2 Processes attached to the arytenoid cartilages:
2. Muscular process
Function and location of the Vocal process:
– projects anteriorly toward the thyroid notch, the vocal folds attach here
Function and location of the Muscular process:
– point of attachment for muscles that adduct and abduct the vocal folds
Laryngeal membranes (3):
Intrinsic ligaments (location:
connect the cartilages of the larynx and form the support structure for the cavity of the larynx as well as the vocal folds
Quadrangular membranes (paired) (location):
are the upper portion of the elastic membrane lining the larynx
Conus elasticus (location):
connects the thyroid, cricoid and arytenoids cartilages
Arytenoid Folds (location):
Vocal folds:
5 layers of the true vocal folds:
Ventricular Folds:
False vocal fold engage when…
…there is hyperactivity or if they lost their true vocal fold due to disease
Innervation to Larynx (Motor + Sensory):
What’s the first question to ask if a client has a paralyzed vocal fold?
Ask if they have had any heart surgery
The Recurrent laryngeal nerve could have been nip b/c it wraps around the heart.
If Left paralysis = nerve near heart
If Right or left paralysis = nerve near the thyroid
Three Voice Subsystems:
The Respiration system is the:
power source for voice