Layers of the Vocal Folds

Question 1

Name the 3 main layers of the vocal folds.

Answer 1

• Cover
• Transition/Vocal Ligament
• Body

Question 2

What 2 structural components make up the cover of the vocal folds?

Answer 2

• Epithelium
• Superficial lamina propria

Question 3

What is another name for the superficial lamina propria?

Answer 3

• Reinke’s space

Question 4

What 2 structural components make up the Transition/Vocal Ligament?

Answer 4

• Intermediate lamina propria
• Deep lamina propria

Question 5

What is the main structure of the Body of the vocal folds called?

Answer 5

• Thyroarytenoid

Question 6

The thyroarytenoid (body) of the vocal folds consists of two parts. What are they, and where are they located?

Answer 6

• Thyrovocalis - Attaches to the vocal process of the arytenoid cartilages
• Thyromuscularis - Attaches to the muscular process of the arytenoid cartilages

Question 7

Describe the epithelium (cover) of the vocal folds.

Answer 7

• Mucosal covering of stratified squamous cells
• Needs a thin layer of mucous lubrication for best oscillation

Question 8

Describe the superficial lamina propria (aka Reinke’s space).

Answer 8

• Extracellular gelatin matrix
• Helps cushion the vocal folds

Question 9

Describe the intermediate lamina propria.

Answer 9

• Composed of elastic fibers
• Part of the vocal ligament

Question 10

Describe the deep lamina propria.

Answer 10

• Collagen fibers
• Supportive
• Part of the vocal ligament

Question 11

What is the function of the Thryroarytenoid?

Answer 11

• Provides tone, stability, and mass (to the vocal folds)

Question 12

Label the Layers of the Vocal Folds

Answer 12

A - Epithelium
B - Superficial Lamina Propria (Reinke’s space)
C - Intermediate Lamina Propria
D - Deep Lamina Propria
E - Vocal Ligament
F - Thyromuscularis
G - Thyrovocalis