Arytenoid cartilages

Arytenoid Cartilages are a pair of small three-sided pyramids which form part of the larynx, to which the vocal cords are attached. They are situated at the back of the larynx, on top of the cricoid cartilage. The arytenoid cartilages play a crucial role in vocal function, as they allow for the opening and closing of the vocal cords.

Structure

The arytenoid cartilages are triangular in shape and located at the superior border of the cricoid cartilage. Each arytenoid cartilage has three surfaces, two processes, and a base. The surfaces include the anterolateral, posterior, and medial surfaces. The processes are the vocal process and the muscular process. The base is broad and concave, and articulates with the cricoid cartilage.

Function

The primary function of the arytenoid cartilages is to anchor the vocal cords. They also play a key role in the movement of the vocal cords, enabling them to open during breathing and close during speech or swallowing. This is achieved through the rotation and sliding of the arytenoid cartilages on the cricoid cartilage.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities or injuries to the arytenoid cartilages can lead to voice disorders, such as hoarseness, voice fatigue, and aphonia. Conditions such as laryngitis, laryngeal paralysis, and laryngeal cancer can also affect the arytenoid cartilages. Treatment options for these conditions may include voice therapy, medication, or surgery.

See Also

• Larynx
• Vocal cords
• Cricoid cartilage

References

• Gray, Henry. Anatomy of the Human Body. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger, 1918; Bartleby.com, 2000. www.bartleby.com/107/.
• Moore, Keith L., and Arthur F. Dalley. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 4th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 1999.

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