Epiglottis Function, Pictures & Definition | Body Maps Your message has been sent. OK We're sorry, an error occurred. We are unable to collect your feedback at this time. However, your feedback is important to us. Please try again later. Close Epiglottis The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located behind the tongue, at the top of the larynx, or voice box. The main function of the epiglottis is to seal off the windpipe during eating, so that food is not accidentally inhaled. The epiglottis also helps with some aspects of sound production in certain languages. Swelling of the epiglottis is called epiglottitis. This condition can block airflow to the lungs and is, therefore, potentially life-threatening. Epiglottitis can have many causes, including burns from hot beverages, throat injury, or bacterial infections. Epiglottis - Digestive System Digestive System Home > Respiratory System > Respiratory System of the Head and Neck > Epiglottis Epiglottis The epiglottis is a flexible flap at the superior end of the larynx in the throat.

It acts as a switch between the larynx and the esophagus to permit air to enter the airway to the lungs and food to pass into the gastrointestinal tract. The epiglottis also protects the body from choking on food that would normally obstruct the airway. The epiglottis is a thin, leaf-shaped structure at the superior border of the larynx, or voice box. In its relaxed position, the epiglottis projects into the pharynx, or throat, and rests just posterior to the tongue. Viewed from the posterior direction, it is shaped like a teardrop with a wide, rounded region at the superior end and a narrow tapered point at its inferior end.... Move up/down/left/right: Click compass arrows Rotate image: Click and drag in any direction, anywhere in the frame Identify objects: Click on them in the image 2D Interactive 3D Rotate & Zoom Change Anatomical System Change View Angle Full Epiglottis Description [Continued from above] . . . The epiglottis is also concave with the lateral edges pointing posteriorly.

Two tiny ligaments - the thyroepiglottic and hyoepiglottic ligaments - hold the epiglottis in its resting position in the throat. The thin thyroepiglottic ligament connects the inferior point of the epiglottis to the thyroid cartilage of the larynx, while the hyoepiglottic ligament connects the anterior surface of the superior region to the hyoid bone. The epiglottis is made of elastic cartilage covered with mucous membrane. Its anterior surface consists of nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium that is consistent with the tissues of the mouth and pharynx. On the posterior surface, it is covered with pseudostratified columnar epithelium that is consistent with the tissues lining the larynx. Under the epithelial layer is a thin layer of areolar connective tissue that provides a loose attachment for the epithelium and supplies it with blood vessels and nerve fibers. The deepest and thickest layer of the epiglottis is the elastic cartilage layer, which consists of a gel-like matrix and many elastin protein fibers.

Elastic cartilage gives the epiglottis a firm, yet extremely flexible and elastic structure. Throughout each day, the epiglottis spends the vast majority of its time relaxed at the superior edge of the larynx just posterior to the tongue. In this position, air is able to enter the pharynx from the nose or mouth and pass freely into the larynx and onward to the lungs. It is only when we swallow food or drink that the epiglottis moves and performs its vital function. The process of swallowing is a complex process involving many structures in the head and neck. During this process, the pharynx, hyoid and larynx are pulled superiorly to allow the pharynx to widen and receive the material being swallowed. The movement of the hyoid allows the wide superior portion of the epiglottis to fold down on top of the glottis of the larynx, covering the opening of the airway. Food entering the pharynx passes over the anterior surface of the epiglottis, which forms the roof of the glottis; the food continues into the esophagus located just posterior to the pharynx.

Prepared by Tim Taylor, Anatomy and Physiology Instructor Larynx Home > Respiratory System > Respiratory System of the Head and Neck > Larynx Larynx The larynx is a tough, flexible segment of the respiratory tract connecting the pharynx to the trachea in the neck. It plays a vital role in the respiratory tract by allowing air to pass through it while keeping food and drink from blocking the airway. The larynx is also the body’s “voice box” as it contains the vocal folds that produce the sounds of speech and singing. Anatomy The larynx is a short, epithelium-lined tube formed by nine pieces of cartilage and several ligaments that bind them together.... Move up/down/left/right: Click compass arrows Rotate image: Click and drag in any direction, anywhere in the frame Identify objects: Click on them in the image 2D Interactive 3D Rotate & Zoom Change Anatomical System Larynx, Superior (From Above) Full Larynx Description [Continued from above] . . . It is located along the body’s midline in the neck region deep to the skin and the muscles of the neck and anterior to the esophagus and cervical vertebrae.

At its superior end, it borders the hyoid bone and the laryngopharynx. The most superior region of the larynx is the epiglottis, a leaf-shaped flap of elastic cartilage covered with epithelium. It connects to the larynx on its tapered inferior end and, except for a brief moment while swallowing, extends its wider superior end slightly into the pharynx just posterior to the tongue. During the process of swallowing, the epiglottis folds over to cover the glottis and prevents food from blocking the airway. Inferior to the epiglottis is the glottis region of the larynx, which contains the vocal folds. The largest cartilage in the larynx, the thyroid cartilage, supports the glottis. The thyroid cartilage is semicircular in shape with a prominent ridge extending from its anterior surface. This ridge is larger in males than in females and is visible through the skin of the neck, forming the structure known as the Adam’s apple. The thyroid cartilage is connected on its superior surface to the hyoid bone by a wide ligament known as the thyrohyoid membrane.

The thyroid cartilage also anchors the anterior ends of the vocal folds, which attach to the inside of the thyroid cartilage at the body’s midline. The cricoid cartilage is the most inferior structure of the larynx and forms the transition between the larynx and the trachea. It is ring-shaped, with its widest portion facing posteriorly and its narrowest portion facing anteriorly. The cricothyroid ligament connects the cricoid cartilage to the thyroid cartilage along most of its superior surface, while the cricotracheal ligament connects it to the trachea along its inferior surface. The wide posterior of the cricoid cartilage almost touches the thyroid cartilage and forms the cricothyroid joint. Sound pitch is modified by adjustment of the angle of the cricothyroid joint, which helps to control the tension of the vocal folds. Posterior to the thyroid cartilage are three tiny, paired masses of cartilage known as the cuneiform, corniculate, and arytenoid cartilages. The arytenoid cartilages are roughly pyramidal masses of cartilage that sit on top of the posterior side of the cricoid cartilage.

These tiny cartilages play a vital role in the production of sound and act as the pivot points for the vocal folds and the muscles that move the vocal folds. Resting on top of the arytenoid cartilages are the horn-shaped corniculate cartilages that help to support the posterior end of the glottis. The cuneiform cartilages are long, thin bands of cartilage that extend laterally from the corniculate cartilages and support the lateral sides of the glottis. Physiology In the process of swallowing, the larynx plays an important role in the direction of food into the esophagus. The epiglottis normally resides in an upright position just anterior to the lumen of the larynx. In this position, it allows air to pass freely through the larynx during inhalation and exhalation. When food or liquid in the mouth is swallowed, the food pushes the epiglottis posteriorly, flipping its free edge over to cover the glottis and block the swallowed substances from entering the larynx. The food then safely passes on to the esophagus, at which point the epiglottis flips back to its resting position.

Occasionally, a person may choke when food gets past the epiglottis or sticks to a structure within the pharynx and blocks the airway. The vocal folds contract to catch the blockage before it passes into the trachea. Coughing pushes air out of the lungs to force the blockage out of the airway. Sounds are produced in the larynx by the movement of air through the larynx and by the vocal folds, a pair of movable folds in the mucous membrane. The vocal folds are connected to the thyroid cartilage on their anterior ends and the arytenoid cartilages on their posterior end. Air exhaled from the lungs passes through the larynx and vibrates the vocal folds. Several sets of muscles move the arytenoid cartilages and the cricothyroid joint to adjust the position and tension of the vocal folds and thereby control the pitch of sound made by the larynx. Prepared by Tim Taylor, Anatomy and Physiology Instructor What is the function of the glottis? | Reference.com What is the function of the glottis? A: Quick Answer The function of the glottis is to make several voicing sounds between the vocal folds when they vibrate.

Voiceless consonants include the English h, f, s, p, t and k sounds. The glottis functions when vocal folds are narrowed yet apart, according to Healthline. Full Answer Voiceless consonants form because the glottis moves without other parts of the larynx. Voiceless consonants occur when the glottal elements are slightly apart from each other instead of vibrating together to make a full voice, notes Healthline. Glottal sounds are how Australian didgeridoo players create a wide range of sounds with their instruments by limiting the size of the glottal opening to make voiceless consonance. Muscles in the larynx adjust the size of the glottal opening, explains Scott Sheffield from GetBodySmart. The glottis expands when humans breathe, and the opening forms a triangular shape to let air in and out of the lungs. To make glottal sounds, muscles in the throat constrict the size of the glottal opening to a very narrow slit. The glottis is below the epiglottis in the throat, according to class notes from Austin Peay State University.

Folds of skin protect the vocal cords when humans swallow, thereby protecting the glottis and the surrounding tissue from damage. The glottis opens when the vocal cords separate in the larynx for speaking. glottis | anatomy | Britannica.com Glottis anatomy THIS ARTICLE IS A STUB. You can learn more about this topic in the related articles below. Alternative Titles: glottal chink, rima glottidis Similar Topics Glottis, either the space between the vocal fold and arytenoid cartilage of one side of the larynx and those of the other side, or the structures that surround that space. See larynx . Figure 1: Location of vocal organs and possible places of articulation. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. larynx a hollow, tubular structure connected to the top of the windpipe (trachea); air passes through the larynx on its way to the lungs. The larynx also produces vocal sounds and prevents the passage of food and other foreign particles into the lower respiratory tracts.

in human respiratory system: The larynx ...a dual function: as an air canal to the lungs and a controller of its access, and as the organ of phonation. Sound is produced by forcing air through a sagittal slit formed by the vocal cords, the glottis. This causes not only the vocal cords but also the column of air above them to vibrate. As evidenced by trained singers, this function can be closely controlled and finely tuned. Control is... in prenatal development: Larynx, trachea, and lungs ...grows off the floor of the endodermal pharynx, just caudal (tailward) to the pharyngeal pouches and in the midline. It has the form of a tube with an expanded end. The entrance to this tube is the glottis, and the region about it becomes the larynx. The tube proper represents the trachea (or windpipe). Its terminal expansion divides into two branches, and these tubes elongate as the primary... in respiratory system: The lung ...portion of the gut.

The lung proper is connected to the outside through a series of tubes; the main tube, known as the trachea (windpipe), exits in the throat through a controllable orifice, the glottis. At the other end the trachea subdivides into secondary tubes (bronchi), in varying degree among different vertebrate groups. Vocal cords The space between the vocal cords is called rima glottidis, glottal chink, or simply glottis (Greek for tongue). When the vocal cords are separated (abducted) for respiration, the glottis assumes a triangular shape with the apex at the anterior commissure. During phonation, the vocal cords are brought together (adducted or approximated), so that they lie more or less parallel to each other. The... Respiratory mechanisms ...this potential depends on such factors as body physiology, state of health, age, body size, physical training, and the competence of the laryngeal voice generator—that is, the ability of the glottis (the vocal cords and the opening between them) to convert the moving energy of the breath stream into audible sound. A marked reduction in phonation time is characteristic of all the...

in phonetics: Articulatory phonetics ...1. The airstream from the lungs passes between the vocal cords, which are two small muscular folds located in the larynx at the top of the windpipe. The space between the vocal cords is known as the glottis. If the vocal cords are apart, as they are normally when breathing out, the air from the lungs will have a relatively free passage into the pharynx (see Figure 1) and the mouth. But if the... Fetal Pig Glossary Fetal Pig Glossary Abdomen - The part of the body that lies between the thorax and the pelvis and encloses the stomach, intestines, liver, spleen, and pancreas. Also called belly. anus - the opening at the end of the digestive system from which feces (waste) exits the body. appendix - a small sac located on the cecum. ascending colon - the part of the large intestine that run upwards; it is located after the cecum. Atrium - A bodily cavity or chamber, especially either of the upper chambers of the heart that receives blood from the veins and forces it into a ventricle. In this sense, also called auricle.

bile - a digestive chemical that is produced in the liver, stored in the gall bladder, and secreted into the small intestine. Caecum (or cecum)- The large blind pouch forming the beginning of the large intestine. In this sense, also called blind gut. Called the appendix in Humans. Cerebral convolutions - The wrinkled outer surface of the cerebrum and the cerebellum. Cerebrum - The large, rounded structure of the brain occupying most of the cranial cavity, divided into two cerebral hemispheres that are joined at the bottom by the corpus callosum. It controls and integrates motor, sensory, and higher mental functions, such as thought, reason, emotion, and memory. Cervical area - Of or relating to a neck or a cervix. chyme - food in the stomach that is partly digested and mixed with stomach acids. Chyme goes on to the small intestine for further digestion. Coronary vein - Any one of the veins that drains blood from the muscular tissue of the heart and empties into the coronary sinus. Cranium - The portion of the skull enclosing the brain; the braincase.

Cystic duct - The duct that conveys bile from the gallbladder to the common bile duct. descending colon - the part of the large intestine that run downwards after the transverse colon and before the sigmoid colon. Diaphragm - A muscular membranous partition separating the abdominal and thoracic cavities and functioning in respiration. Duodenum - The beginning portion of the small intestine; it is C-shaped and runs from the stomach to the jejunum. Epiglottis - The thin elastic cartilaginous structure located at the root of the tongue that folds over the glottis to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea during the act of swallowing. Esophagus - The muscular, membranous tube for the passage of food (via peristalsis) from the pharynx to the stomach; the gullet. Fontanel - Any of the soft membranous gaps between the incompletely formed cranial bones of a fetus or an infant. Also called soft spot. Frontal bone - A cranial bone consisting of a vertical portion corresponding to the forehead and a horizontal portion that forms the roofs of the orbital and nasal cavities.

gall bladder - a small,muscular, sac-like organ located near the duodenum. It stores and releases bile (a digestive chemical which is produced in the liver) into the small intestine. Glottis - The opening between the vocal cords at the upper part of the larynx. Hard palate - The relatively hard, bony anterior portion of the palate. Hepatic duct - The main excretory duct of the liver, which joins the cystic duct to form the common bile duct. Ileocaceal valve - The sphincter valve between the ileum portion of the small intestine and the large intestine. Ileum - The terminal portion of the small intestine extending from the jejunum to the cecum (just before the large intestine begins). jejunum - the long, coiled mid-section of the small intestine; it is between the duodenum and the ileum. Kidney - Either one of a pair of organs in the dorsal region of the vertebrate abdominal cavity, functioning to maintain proper water and electrolyte balance, regulate acid-base concentration, and filter the blood of metabolic wastes, which are then excreted as urine.

Larynx - The part of the respiratory tract between the pharynx and the trachea, having walls of cartilage and muscle and containing the vocal cords enveloped in folds of mucous membrane. liver - a large organ located above and in front of the stomach. It filters toxins from the blood, and makes bile (which breaks down fats) and some blood proteins. Longitudinal fissure - The diersion between the right and left hemisphere of the brain. Mandible - The lower jaw of a vertebrate animal. Mesentery - Any of several folds of the peritoneum that connect the intestines to the dorsal abdominal wall, especially such a fold that envelops the jejunum and ileum. mouth - the first part of the digestive system, where food enters the body. Chewing and salivary enzymes in the mouth are the beginning of the digestive process (breaking down the food). Nasopharyngeal opening - Passageway between the oralpharynx (throat) and the nasopharynx (nasal cavity). Palate - The roof of the mouth in vertebrates having a complete or partial separation of the oral and nasal cavities and consisting of the hard palate and the soft palate.

Pancreas - A long, irregularly shaped gland in vertebrates, lying behind the stomach, that secretes pancreatic juice into the duodenum and insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin into the bloodstream. pancreas - an enzyme-producing gland located below the stomach and above the intestines. Enzymes from the pancreas help in the digestion of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in the small intestine. Parietal bone - Either of two large, irregularly quadrilateral bones between the frontal and occipital bones that together form the sides and top of the skull. Pericardium - The membranous sac filled with serous fluid that encloses the heart and the roots of the aorta and other large blood vessels. peristalsis - rhythmic muscle movements that force food in the esophagus from the throat into the stomach. Peristalsis is involuntary - you cannot control it. It is also what allows you to eat and drink while upside-down. Peritoneum - The serous membrane that lines the walls of the abdominal cavity and folds inward to enclose the viscera. Pulmonary artery - An artery that carries venous blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs.

Pyloric valve - Sphincter muscle between the stomach and the duodenum. rectum - the lower part of the large intestine, where feces are stored before they are excreted. salivary glands - glands located in the mouth that produce saliva. Saliva contains enzymes that break down carbohydrates (starch) into smaller molecules. sigmoid colon - the part of the large intestine between the descending colon and the rectum. Soft palate - The movable fold, consisting of muscular fibers enclosed in mucous membrane, that is suspended from the rear of the hard palate and closes off the nasal cavity from the oral cavity during swallowing or sucking. Spinous process - The long rearward projection from the arch of a vertebra that provides a point of attachment for muscles and ligaments. Spleen - A large, highly vascular lymphoid organ, lying in the human body to the left of the stomach below the diaphragm, serving to store blood, disintegrate old blood cells, filter foreign substances from the blood, and produce lymphocytes. Sternum - A long flat bone in most vertebrates that is situated along the ventral midline of the thorax and articulates with the ribs.

The manubrium of the sternum articulates with the clavicles in human beings and certain other vertebrates. Also called breastbone. stomach - a sack-like, muscular organ that is attached to the esophagus. Both chemical and mechanical digestion takes place in the stomach. When food enters the stomach, it is churned in a bath of acids and enzymes. Thoracic cavity - Chest cavity including the heart, lungs, thachea, area between the neck region and the diaphragm. Thymus Gland - Gland located on the upper area of the heart. Thyroid gland - A two-lobed endocrine gland found in all vertebrates, located in front of and on either side of the trachea in human beings, and producing various hormones, such as triiodothyronine and calcitonin. Trachea - A thin-walled tube of cartilaginous and membranous tissue descending from the larynx to the bronchi and carrying air to the lungs. Also called windpipe. transverse colon - the part of the large intestine that runs horizontally across the abdomen. Transverse process - A process projecting outward from the side of a vertebra.

Trapezius muscle - Either of two large, flat, triangular muscles running from the base of the occiput to the middle of the back that support and make it possible to raise the head and shoulders. Umbilical cord - The flexible cordlike structure connecting a fetus at the navel with the placenta and containing two umbilical arteries and one vein that transport nourishment to the fetus and remove its wastes. Umbilical vein - Blood vessel located in the umbilical cord between the placenta and the fetus. Enters the inferior vena cava just beneath the liver. Anatomy and Physiology: The Pharynx and Epiglottis Anatomy and Physiology: The Pharynx and Epiglottis Tweet Once upon a time, I almost died. I was two years old and at my grandmother’s house, where my cousins were having a blast trying to find the plastic Easter eggs my grandmother had hid. You see, inside the eggs were quarters, dimes, and nickels. And, if you were lucky, you would stumble upon big plastic eggs, which had dollar bills inside them. But, being two, I wasn't really able to participate. That didn't stop me, though.

I stumbled around on my stubby legs and happened upon a plastic egg, inside which were a quarter and a nickel. Naturally, I scooped out the change and shoved them in my mouth. The next few minutes were kind of chaotic, what with me choking and turning blue, slipping slowly into unconsciousness, while my grandmother screamed at the 9-1-1 operator to make the ambulance drive faster and my mother tried to perform the Heimlich on my little body to no avail. They realized with horror that the ambulance wasn’t going to make it in time. My dad—thinking fast, or not at all—pried my mouth open and stuck his fingers down my throat. Pretty far, according to my mother. He managed to drag the coins up out of my throat and out of my mouth, which was incredibly lucky, as he had a much better chance of pushing them down even further and sealing my fate. The paramedics arrived some minutes later and declared me A-OK. That day left me with a cool story to tell 27 years later and my parents with a healthy fear of coin currency. Why did I tell you this story?

Because this is a great example of the pharyngeal reflex, or gag reflex, which your body employs to prevent unwanted things (such as coins) from entering the lungs. The digestive system and upper respiratory system share many of the same structures, so to make sure everything goes where it’s supposed to, the body has certain vanguards in place. Let’s take a look at them! Oral Cavity We’re all pretty familiar with this structure. The oral cavity is the inside of the mouth, an oval-shaped cavity located anteriorly to the pharynx at the start of the alimentary canal. The front of the cavity is bound by the inner surface of the lips and cheeks to the gingiva (gums) and teeth. The cavity floor is defined mostly by the tongue and the roof is formed by the hard and soft palates. Food is masticated (chewed) in this cavity by the teeth and tongue, mixed with saliva containing enzymes to help break down carbohydrates. The mass created by this process is called a bolus, which is then swallowed. The oral cavity is also an airway for the respiratory system.

Pharynx The pharynx is a large musculomembranous tube that functions in both the respiratory system and the digestive system. It is made up of three sections: 1. Nasopharynx This portion of the pharynx begins at the back of the nasal cavity, situated behind the nose and above the soft palate. Unlike the other two portions of the pharynx, the nasopharynx remains open all the time. On each lateral wall is the pharyngeal opening of the Eustachian (auditory) tube. The nasopharynx functions as an airway in the respiratory system. Also contained within the nasopharynx are the adenoids, or pharyngeal tonsils. 2. Oropharynx The oropharynx is the middle portion of the pharynx, working with both the respiratory and digestive systems. It opens anteriorly in the mouth and extends from the soft palate to the hyoid. In each lateral wall is a palatine tonsil; also in this region are the sublingual tonsils, which are under the tongue. The oropharynx functions as an airway and as part of the alimentary canal. 3.

Laryngopharynx This is where my near-death experience could have gone either way. The laryngopharynx is the posteriormost inferior region of the pharynx, reaching from the hyoid to the lower border of the cricoid cartilage; it’s the place where the respiratory and digestive systems diverge. The rear of the laryngopharynx becomes the esophagus and continues into the digestive tract, while the front of the laryngopharynx merges with the entrance of the larynx. The epiglottis, a structure in the laryngeal skeleton, helps direct food toward the esophagus, preventing food and liquids (and coins) from entering the trachea. Epiglottis I have a love/hate relationship with the epiglottis. On the one hand, I think its function in the respiratory system is fascinating, and I have it to thank for trying to keep the coins from entering my lungs; on the other, I loathe it for all the extra work it made me do in my college linguistics course. If I hear the words “glottal stop” ever again, I will not be responsible for my actions.

The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped cartilaginous structure that is part of the laryngeal skeleton. It’s usually directed upward toward the pharynx, like an open door through which air passes to the trachea . During swallowing, muscles pull it down to close the entry to the larynx—closing the door, so to speak—to prevent food, liquid, and saliva (and coins) from entering the trachea. Now apply that principle to the stoppage of air. The epiglottis is pulled down to stop air from entering the trachea. For example, you tend to create glottal stops in words that end in t+vowel+n. The word “button” sounds like “butt-n” when spoken—you don’t tend to vocalize the vowel. The vocal cords close sharply, the epiglottis comes down, and no air is passed. Also, if you’ve ever swallowed the wrong way, you’ve experienced that quick panic and awful seizing in your chest. This is the pharyngeal reflex, or gag reflex, acting to expel whatever you swallowed before it can enter the lungs.

Sometimes the reflex is very sensitive, and even accidentally pushing your toothbrush too far can set it off! Your body very much doesn’t want you to asphyxiate; I wish two-year-old me had received that memo. Sorry to bother you with this, but, as a musician, singer, and dance caller, I would very much appreciate seeing / reading about how the voice works -- glottal stops, fricatives, nasal stops, and all. Thanks Wânia Regina Lima I teach at a university, and I teach in the course of speech therapy. Would you like to receive images and related chewing, sucking, swallowing and phonation videos. I keep getting emails from their site and I like the material. I thank Wania Lima Adeeba Hey Ms. Regina, I am a first year student of speech therapy in India. Could you send me any videos, images or articles related to Speech? I would appreciate you help. Thank you Vocal Cord and Voice Box Anatomy: Overview, Gross Anatomy, Microscopic Anatomy Vocal Cord and Voice Box Anatomy Updated: Aug 31, 2015 Author: Rishi Vashishta, MD; Chief Editor: Thomas R Gest, PhD more...

Share Overview Overview The vocal folds, also known as vocal cords, are located within the larynx (also colloquially known as the voice box) at the top of the trachea. They are open during inhalation and come together to close during swallowing and phonation. When closed, the vocal folds may vibrate and modulate the expelled airflow from the lungs to produce speech and singing. A video displaying the anatomy of the vocal cords and voice box is provided below. Airway endoscopy demonstrating the larynx of a 3-year-old child. The larynx is situated at the level of the base of tongue. Separating the tongue from the larynx is the flaplike structure called the epiglottis. The larynx itself consists of 2 glistening white vocal folds, which form a V-shaped structure. The glottic airway is between the vocal folds. Just superior to the vocal folds are the false vocal folds. The posterior aspect of the larynx is lined by the arytenoids. The arytenoids form 2 "bumps" at the posterior aspect of the vocal folds and are separated by the intra-arytenoid notch.

Posterior to the larynx is the esophageal inlet. Video courtesy of Dr. Ravi Elluru. Next: Gross Anatomy The vocal cords are composed of mucous membrane infoldings that stretch horizontally across the middle laryngeal cavity . They are attached anteriorly at the angle on the interior surface of the thyroid cartilage and project posteriorly to the arytenoid cartilages on either side. The vestibular folds, or false vocal cords, are formed by the superior layer of infolded membrane; the vocal folds, or true vocal cords, are formed from the inferior layer of infolded membrane. The laryngeal ventricles extend laterally and are located between the vestibular and vocal folds. [ 1 , 2 ] Vestibular folds (false vocal cords) The quadrangular membrane extends between the lateral aspects of the epiglottis and the anterolateral surface of the arytenoid cartilages on the each side. The free lower inferior margin of this ligament is thickened to form the vestibular ligament, which forms the vestibular folds (false vocal cords) once covered by mucosa.

The lower border of the vestibular folds forms the upper boundary of the laryngeal ventricle. The primary function of the vestibular folds is protection of the more delicate vocal folds that lie beneath. The vestibular folds have a minimal role in phonation but may be used in the production of deep tones and screaming or throat singing. Laryngeal ventricles On either side of the middle laryngeal cavity, in between the vestibular and vocal folds, the mucosa bulges laterally to form troughs known as the laryngeal ventricles. The laryngeal saccules are tubular extensions of each ventricle anterosuperiorly between the vestibular fold and the thyroid cartilage. The walls of these saccules are thought to contain many mucous glands that lubricate the vocal folds. Vocal folds (true vocal cords) The conus elasticus extends superiorly from the anterior arch of the cricoid cartilage and attaches to the thyroid cartilage anteriorly and the vocal processes of the arytenoid cartilages posteriorly.

The free superior margin of this submucosal membrane is thickened to form the vocal ligament, which forms the vocal folds (true vocal cords) once covered by mucosa. The vocal folds also contain muscle fibers originating from the vocalis part of the thyroarytenoid muscle, which lies deep and inferior, parallel with the vocal ligament to which it is attached at the posterior end. The main function of the muscle is fine tonal control of the vocal cords. The vocal folds differ in size and color between males and females. Adult males typically have larger, longer folds (due to the sexually dimorphic laryngeal prominence), resulting in a lower-pitched voice. The vocal folds appear more pearly white in women than in men. Functional anatomy of the vocal cords The larynx, or voice box, has multiple intrinsic muscles that control movement of the vocal folds. All of these muscles are innervated by the recurrent laryngeal branch of the vagus nerve (CN X) except the cricothyroid muscles, which are innervated by the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve, which is also a branch of the vagus nerve .

The cricothyroid muscles function to elevate the anterior arch of the cricoid cartilage and depress the posterior portion of the thyroid cartilage lamina. This produces tension and elongation of the vocal cords, resulting in higher-pitch phonation. The posterior cricoarytenoid muscles function to rotate the arytenoid cartilages laterally, thereby abducting the vocal cords. Their action opposes that of the lateral cricoarytenoid muscles. The lateral cricoarytenoid muscles function to rotate the arytenoid cartilages medially, thereby adducting the vocal cords. The main function of the transverse arytenoid muscle is adduction of the vocal cords. The thyroarytenoid muscles function to draw the arytenoid cartilages forward, thereby relaxing and shortening the vocal cords, while also rotating the arytenoid cartilage inward, thus adducting the vocal folds and narrowing the rima glottis. The vocalis part of each thyroarytenoid muscle is contained within the vocal folds on each side. Of note, the only muscles capable of separating the vocal cords for normal breathing are the posterior cricoarytenoid muscles.

Bilateral injury to the recurrent laryngeal branches of the vagus nerve (CN X) results in an inability to abduct the vocal folds and causes difficulty breathing. Previous Epiglottis – Definition, Function, Location, Pictures and Problems Home > Human Anatomy > Epiglottis – Definition, Function, Location, Pictures and Problems Epiglottis – Definition, Function, Location, Pictures and Problems Page Contents 13 Epiglottis Pictures Ever wondered what keeps your food from going off into your windpipes while eating? It is the humble Epiglottis that does the job for you. Read and know all what is Epiglottis, its location, its function, the diseases that affect it and the treatment of those conditions. Epiglottis Definition Picture 1 – Epiglottis Source – daviddarling Epiglottis is structure of the body that hangs down the windpipe. When food is swallowed, the Epiglottis keeps it from entering the lungs. In the absence of Epiglottis a person can choke and cough every time while eating.

Epiglottis Location Epiglottis is found at the entrance of the larynx. It projects sideways at the rear of the tongue and the hyoid bone . Epiglottis Pronunciation = âA-pee-glot-tisâ. Epiglottis Action Normally, Epiglottis points upwards allowing free passage of air into the trachea and larynx. During eating and swallowing process, the Epiglottis shuts itself thus blocking the opening into the trachea. When the swallowing is done, the Epiglottis opens up again allowing normal breathing. Epiglottis and Swallowing The Epiglottis function in swallowing is a very important one. While swallowing food and water, it draws itself back to cover the entry point of the larynx which prevents food and drink from going into the windpipe. These edible substances enter the esophagus and directly go into the stomach. When the swallowing action ends, the epiglottis moves up once again making normal flow of air into the trachea (windpipe). Epiglottis Structure Epiglottis is composed of elastic cartilage.

Cartilage is a tough elastic tissue. It is made of small bundles of fibers that are highly elastic. This makes it sturdy yet flexible. The cartilage tissue in the Epiglottis is coated with mucus membranes. This makes it hard enough to form a barrier before the trachea while swallowing. At the same time, it is soft enough to fold itself once the action is done. Function of Epiglottis in the Respiratory System The Epiglottis function in respiratory system is a very important one. It is because of this cartilaginous structure that you do not choke while eating or drinking. It is because the Epiglottis shuts the entrance to the trachea that food and drinks are transferred to the digestive system. However, sometimes food or liquid falls into pockets at either side of the Epiglottis. These can be safely coughed up and choking can be prevented. This is the reason why it is not safe to talk while swallowing. How Does The Epiglottis Work? Most of us have no idea how the Epiglottis works inside our body. The function of the Epiglottis is highly interesting and important.

As aforementioned, it is placed behind the hyoid bone in the neck. During swallowing, the neck muscles lift the hyoid bone which causes the Epiglottis to fold down and obstruct the airway thus diverting the swallowed substances to the esophagus. Epiglottis and Glottis Many people tend to mistake the Epiglottis with the glottis. Both are structurally and functionally different parts of the anatomy. The epiglottis is the cartilage flap fixed to the entrance of the larynx. Glottis is the space lying between the vocal folds and arytenoid cartilages located in the larynx. In other words, it is an opening to the larynx. It is known as the organ of speech or the vocal equipment of the larynx. It is the Glottis where voice tone is produced. Epiglottis Function in Digestion Epiglottis automatically delivers food and nutrients to the digestive system. It is because of this organ that swallowed particles are diverted to the esophagus and not the respiratory system. While swallowing, the organ flops down to channelize the eaten particles directly to the stomach.

Epiglottis Function in Speech The Epiglottis has a vital role in speech. It acts as an articulator in the production of vowels and pharyngeal consonants. In pharyngeals, Epiglottis articulates against the posterior pharynx wall. During slow speech, the speech is generated through a narrow opening. While pronouncing vowels, the opening between the Epiglottis and the pharynx becomes larger. In case of pronunciation of consonants, the aperture becomes smaller. Epiglottis is also involved in whisper, though it is seen to be more retracted than in normal speech. Epiglottis Problems Like any other organ in the body, the Epiglottis can be affected by a number of conditions. Some of the main Epiglottis diseases are Epiglottitis This condition leads to the swelling of the Epiglottis. This inflammation is caused mainly by an infection due to Haemophilus influenza bacteria. However, it may also result from attack by other types of bacteria and viruses that can cause Upper Respiratory Infection.

Epiglottitis bacterial infection is now a rare disease but was once one of the very common Epiglottis problems in children in the age group 2 to 6. Today, it is rarely seen to affect adults. But it is a life-threatening disorder and can even lead to death due to breathing difficulties that it causes. Epiglottis Ulcers Ulcers in Epiglottis are highly discomforting. They can give rise to extremely uncomfortable symptoms like sore throat and blocked ears. The presence of ulcers in Epiglottis makes it very difficult to swallow food and water.Â The throat can pain even while swallowing your own saliva. Chlorhexadine, Phylorinol, Tetracycline and codeine can be effective in curing Epiglottis lesions. Epiglottis Surgery Some people inhale food particles into their lungs from the mouth. This problem is known as Chronic Aspiration and can cause frequent respiratory infections, coughs and sore throat. In such cases, the Epiglottis needs to be surgically modified. However, the aim of surgery is to only change the structure of the Epiglottis and not remove it altogether.

Complete Epiglottis removal can cause serious problems. The air breathed in would enter the stomach and the food would travel to the trachea. Epiglottis repair surgery intends to put an end to Chronic Aspiration without removing this vital organ. Epiglottis Pictures Want to check how the Epiglottis actually looks like? Here are some useful Epiglottis photos for you. Take a look at these Epiglottis diagrams and know about the appearance of this important anatomical organ. Picture 2 – Epiglottis Image Picture 3 – Epiglottis Photo Source – mycotopia Epiglottis is a very important part of our body. It is this organ that aids in speech and eating foods and drinks. It is also because of this body organ that proper respiration becomes possible for us. References:

Question: Where in the human body is the glottis?
Answer: Larynx