10.1.2 Mucosal Lining and Internal Anatomical Appearance of Larynx Flashcards
What is the larynx lined with?
- Mucous Membrane
- Internal Anatomy is shaped by folds formed by ligaments/membranes
What are the 3 sections of the larynx?
- Supraglottis
- Glottis
- Infraglottis
What are the borders of the supraglottis?
Epiglottis up to and including false cords
What are the borders of the glottis?
Narrowest part of larynx
Below false cords, includes true cords until ~1cm below
What are the borders of the infraglottis?
Below true cords to inferior boundary of cricoid
What type of epithelium lines the larynx?
Pseudostratified ciliated columnar
Except for the true vocal cords which are stratified squamous
Why do the true vocal cords have stratified squamous epithelia?
True cords deal with the abrasive force of air, therefore need to have strong epithelium to withstand the abrasion
When can the larynx be visualised?
Nasoendoscopy
Intubation- has light on the end which lets you see the cords
What is a nasoendoscopy?
Insertion of a flexible endoscope via nasal cavity and pharynx to then visualise layrnx
Larynx as seen with nasoendoscopy
Where do you position the laryngoscope in intubation?
Place blade of laryngoscope in the valecula (small recess between the root of the tounge and epiglottis)
This allows the tongue to be pushed forwards and the epiglottis is elevated allowing easy access to vocal cords
What is the positioning of the epiglottis in procedures?
Nasoendoscope- epiglottis is inferior as the patient is sitting up
Intubation- epiglottis will be superior as the patient will be supine position
The point formed of the vocal cords will always be the anterior direction, use this to help locate
Where do you place the endotracheal tube in intubation?
Subglottic region, below vocal cords
Small balloon-like cuff is inflated to keep tube in place
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