Short notes on cartilages found in larynx:
1. Thyroid cartilage:
This is the largest and consists of two side flaps united in the centre to form an angular projection sometimes referred to as Adam’s apple.
2. Cricoid Cartilage:
ADVERTISEMENTS:
This is situated below the thyroid cartilage and forms the lowest part of the larynx where it connects to the trachea. It is circular in shape with an expansion at the back giving it a signet ring shape.(The lobes of the thyroid gland lie on each side of the cricoid and thyroid cartilages)
3. Arytenoid Cartilages:
These are two small structures located on the upper surface of the cricoid cartilage. These are pyramidal in shape and provide attachment to the posterior ends of the vocal cords. In front, the vocal cords are attached to the posterior surface of the thyroid cartilage. The muscles present in the cords vary the tension and rotate the arytenoid cartilages thereby vibrations are produced resulting in the alterations of the pitch of the voice.
4. Epiglottis:
ADVERTISEMENTS:
This is a leaf shaped plate made up of yellow elastic fibro cartilage and is situated between the base of the tongue and the upper opening of the larynx. The lower portion of the epiglottis is attached through a ligament to the thyroid cartilage. The main function of the epiglottis is to prevent the entry of food to the larynx during swallowing.
5. Hyoid:
This is a horseshoe shaped bone lying between the mandible above and larynx below. It is located at the base of the tongue and provides attachment to this. This however does not take any part in the formation of the larynx. Internally the larynx is lined by the mucous membrane which is covered with ciliated columnar epithelium except over the vocal cords.