Quadrangular membrane

Quadrangular Membrane

The Quadrangular Membrane is a thin, fibroelastic sheet of connective tissue found in the larynx. It is also known as the ventricularis or superior vestibular ligament. The quadrangular membrane plays a crucial role in the functioning of the human voice.

Etymology

The term "quadrangular" is derived from the Latin words "quattuor" meaning "four" and "angulus" meaning "angle". This refers to the four-sided shape of the membrane.

Anatomy

The quadrangular membrane extends from the lateral wall of the epiglottis to the arytenoid cartilage and corniculate cartilage. It forms the superior and lateral boundaries of the laryngeal ventricle, a cavity in the larynx. The lower free edge of the quadrangular membrane thickens to form the vestibular fold or false vocal cord.

Function

The quadrangular membrane contributes to the structure and function of the larynx. It helps to maintain the shape and flexibility of the larynx, which is essential for voice production. The vestibular fold formed by the quadrangular membrane also plays a role in protecting the vocal cords during swallowing.

Related Terms

• Larynx: The organ in the throat involved in breathing, producing sound, and protecting the trachea against food aspiration.
• Epiglottis: A leaf-shaped flap in the throat that prevents food and drink from entering the windpipe and the lungs.
• Arytenoid cartilage: A pair of small three-sided pyramids which form part of the larynx, to which the vocal cords are attached.
• Corniculate cartilage: A pair of horn-shaped pieces of elastic cartilage located at the apex of the arytenoid cartilages.
• Laryngeal ventricle: A midline, sagittal recess in the larynx, extending vertically between the vestibular and vocal folds.
• Vestibular fold: The superior set of folds in the larynx, also known as the false vocal cords.
• Vocal cords: The two folds of mucous membrane within the larynx that vibrate to produce sound.

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the quadrangular membrane