Functions of the Larynx

Question 1

what are the 3 different types of functions of the larynx

Answer 1

protection, respiration and phonation

Question 2

how does the larynx give protection and airflow function

Answer 2

because it is fundamentally a sphincter

Question 3

describe the respiratory function of the larynx

Answer 3

during forced inspiration focal folds abduct to allow passage of air, esp. during exertion

Question 4

what does contraction of the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle cause

Answer 4

lateral rotation of the cricoarytenoid joint, widening the rima glottidis

Question 5

what is the rima glottidis

Answer 5

opening between the vocal cords and the arytenoid cartilages of the larynx

Question 6

how is the protective function of the larynx achieved

Answer 6

glottic closure and cough reflex

Question 7

when does the larynx protective function occur

Answer 7

during swallowing(pharyngeal phase), to reduce passage of substances other than air into the lower respiratory tract

Question 8

describe the state of the rima glottidis during the protective function of the larynx

Answer 8

firmly closed

Question 9

what is the role of controlled expiration in the phonation function of the larynx

Answer 9

helps build pressure in respiratory tree inferior to the larynx, different pressures required for different sounds(ie whispering, shouting, normal speech)
(subglossal pressure)

Question 10

what is phonation

Answer 10

producing a sound in the larynx by vibration of the vocal folds

Question 11

describe the phonation function of the larynx

Answer 11

once subglottal pressure reaches threshold the air crosses vocal cords causing vibration, length/tension of cords dictates pitch of sound, degree of opening/shape of rima glottidis also important

Question 12

what type of muscles are the intrinsic laryngeal muscles, and what are they all innervated by

Answer 12

skeletal(voluntary) muscles

innervated by CN X(vagus nerve)

Question 13

what impact does tension, relaxation, adduction and abduction of the vocal cords have on phonation

Answer 13

tension = increase pitch
relaxation = decrease pitch
adduction = quieter 
abduction = louder