Larynx and Laryngopharynx Flashcards
Describe the nerves that innervate the larynx
The superior laryngeal becomes the internal and external laryngeal to supply from above while the recurrent laryngeal supplies from below.
They are all branches of the vagus
What is the clinical implication of the position of the laryngeal vessels?
The inferior thyroid vein sits on top of the trachea making inserting an emergency airway difficulty therefore the cricothyroid membrane should be used instead
Does fluid travel through the laryngopharynx in the same manner as food?
No, it travels lateral to the epiglottis, over the aryepiglottic folds as it isn’t heavy enough to depress the epiglottis
Where is the origin of the epiglottis?
Posterior aspect of the angle of the thyroid cartilage
What position must the vocal ligament be in for breathing to occur?
Abduction
Which muscles is important for adduction of the vocal folds?
Lateral cricoarytenoid
What happens the voice when the recurrent laryngeal nerve is damaged?
Hoarse voice and stridor
How does the epiglottis connect to the tongue?
It hangs off the back of the tongue
Describe the course of a food bolus during swallowing
The bolus passing through the oropharynx and pushes down the epiglottis > travels down the oesophagus
T/F Mechanical closure of the epiglottis is sufficient to seal the entrance to the larynx?
False, the thyroid cartilage also lifts
Does the arytenoid cartilage sit on the thyroid or cricoid cartilage?
Cricoid
What are the implications of the swivel of the arytenoid cartilage?
Allows movement of the vocal ligaments
What are the three major structures in the laryngeal skeleton?
The hyoid bone
The thyroid cartilage
Cricoid cartilage
What position must the vocal ligament be in to produce sound?
Adduction
Which muscles does the inferior laryngeal nerve supply?
All intrinsic muscles of the larynx except the cricothyroid
