Arytenoid Cartilages

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Arytenoid cartilages are a pair of small three-sided pyramidal pieces of cartilage found in the larynx, which are essential for the production of vocal sounds. They are located at the top of the cricoid cartilage, with which they articulate. The arytenoids are key structures in the function of the vocal cords and voice production.

Structure

The arytenoid cartilages are composed of hyaline cartilage, a type of cartilage that provides support with some flexibility. Each arytenoid cartilage has three surfaces (anterior, lateral, and medial), two processes (vocal process and muscular process), and a base. The vocal process projects anteriorly toward the back of the thyroid cartilage, where it attaches to the vocal cords. The muscular process projects laterally and provides an attachment site for muscles that regulate the tension and position of the vocal cords.

Function

The primary function of the arytenoid cartilages is to anchor and manipulate the vocal cords. They enable the vocal cords to be tense during speech or relaxed during breathing. The arytenoids rotate and slide on the cricoid cartilage, movements controlled by various laryngeal muscles. These movements adjust the position, tension, and length of the vocal cords, which in turn affects the pitch and tone of the voice.

Clinical Significance

Disorders of the arytenoid cartilages can lead to voice problems, including hoarseness or loss of voice. Conditions such as laryngitis, trauma, and laryngeal cancer can affect the arytenoids. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to correct these issues.

See Also

• Larynx
• Vocal cords
• Cricoid cartilage
• Thyroid cartilage