Larynx and Pharynx Flashcards
What is the pharynx?
the area common to both the respiratory and digestive systems
What are the three divisions of the pharynx?
-nasopharynx
-oropharynx
-laryngopharynx
What are the borders of the nasopharynx?
-choanae
-palatopharyngeal arch
What are the borders of the oropharynx?
-palatoglossal arches
-where the epiglottis and soft palate meet
What are the borders of the laryngopharynx?
-palatopharyngeal arch
-pharyngo-esophageal limen
Which structure is found within the nasopharynx on each side?
opening of auditory tube
Which structure is found within the oropharynx on each side?
semilunar folds
Which structure is found underneath the semilunar folds?
palatine tonsils
What is the role of the larynx cartilages?
hold the front end of the trachea open
Which cartilages make up the larynx cartilages?
-1 epiglottic
-1 thyroid
-2 arytenoid
-1 cricoid
What is the role of the hyoid apparatus?
anchor the larynx cartilages to the skull
What are the characteristics of the basihyoid?
-only unpaired bone in the hyoid apparatus
-only bone in the hyoid apparatus that crosses the midline
What is the function of the epiglottis?
closes the respiratory tract
Which cartilages are the vocal ligaments/cords attached to?
arytenoid cartilages
What is the cricothyroid ligament?
tissue attaching the thyroid cartilage to the cricoid cartilage
