Lecture 5 Flashcards
Describe the general structure of the larynx:
The larynx refers to a series of 4 hyaline cartilage elements including the 2 paired arytenoid cartilages, the thyroid cartilage, the cricoid cartilage and the elastic cartilage epiglottis. It is suspended in the intermandibular space with the thyrohyoid joint articulating with the rostral cornu via the thyroid cartilage. The shape and size of the larynx is modified by the cranial and caudal recurrent laryngeal nerves. Quite a mobile complex as it shifts back and forward with deglutition of the tongue.
What are the major functions of the larynx?
• Protect LRT from aspiration Deflection of fluid into the raised piriform recesses by raised epiglottis Sealing by closed glottis Cough reflex • Basic phonation Vocal folds • Fixing of intrathoracic pressure Abdominal straining e.g defecations • Forceful expulsion of air Coughing and sneezing
Name the four major cartilages of the larynx:
- epiglottis
- thyroid cartilage
- cricoid cartilage
- 2 paired arytenoid cartilages
What are the boundaries of the laryngeal vestibule?
- Aditus to glottis
- Aditus is defined laterally by aryepiglottic folds
What are the boundaries of the glottic cleft?
Rima glottis (diamond shaped orifice) to the glottis (referrs to the whole vocal apparatus- being the vocal folds + arytenoid cartilages + rima glottis
Where is the infraglottic cavity?
Glottis to the trachea
Where is the Laryngeal ventricle?
entered between vestibular and vocal folds
What muscle is an abductor of the vocal cords?
Dorsal cricoarytenoid muscle
What muscle is innervated by the cranial laryngeal nerve?
Cricothyroideus
What is the cause of laryngeal hemiplasia?
It is normally the left recurrent laryngeal nerve that is affected- various different mechanical causes. This results in atrophy of the dorsal cricoarytenoid muscle. Surgical correction often involves tying this muscle back
