Larynx

Question 1

Define the components of the respiratory layer of the cervical viscera.

Answer 1

Pharynx, nasal cavity, oral cavity and larynx. Air flows through them, most important is probably larynx

Question 2

Describe the function and location of the larynx.

Answer 2

Function: to maintain airway patency and phonation, redirects foods into esophagus and protects upper airway from foods.
Located just above start of esophagus and below oral cavity

Question 3

Describe the cartilaginous structures that makeup the larynx and the relationship to the hyoid bone.

Answer 3

Epiglottis – looks like toilet lid, articulates w/ thyroid cartilage via thyroepiglottic ligament and with hyoid bone via hyoepiglottic ligament

Thyroid cartilage – majorly important, looks like a shield, articulates w/ hyoid via greater horn of thyroid cartilage and held in place via thyrohyoid membrane

Cricoid cartilage – super bowl ring, articulates w/ thyroid at inferior horn of thyroid cartilage, held in place via median and lateral cricothyroid ligament (there is a synovial joint), and artic w/ first tracheal ring via cricotracheal ligament

Arytnoid cartilage – look like Mickey Mouse wizard hat, articulate with thyroid cartilage via vocal ligament from its vocal process

Corniculate cartilage – sits atop arytnoid
Cartilages are below hyoid.