Arytenoid cartilages
Arytenoid Cartilages
The Arytenoid Cartilages (pronounced: ar-i-ten-oid) 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.
Etymology
The term "Arytenoid" is derived from the Greek words "arytaina" meaning ladle and "eidos" meaning form or shape. This is due to the ladle-like shape of the cartilages.
Structure
The Arytenoid Cartilages are made up of hyaline cartilage and consist of three parts: the base, the apex, and the vocal process. The base is broad and concave, and articulates with the cricoid cartilage. The apex is pointed and gives attachment to the Corniculate Cartilages. The vocal process is a small, pointed, and anteriorly directed projection from the base to which the vocal cords attach.
Function
The primary function of the Arytenoid Cartilages is to aid in the production of sound by the larynx. They allow for the movement and tension adjustment of the vocal cords, which is essential for varying pitch and volume of the voice.
Related Terms
- Larynx: The hollow muscular organ forming an air passage to the lungs and holding the vocal cords in humans and other mammals; the voice box.
- Vocal Cords: Also known as vocal folds, they are involved in creating sounds through vocalization.
- Cricoid Cartilage: The ring-shaped structure that forms the lower part of the larynx.
- Corniculate Cartilages: A pair of small conical nodules consisting of elastic cartilage, which articulate with the arytenoid cartilages.
See Also
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