Cricothyroid

Cricothyroid is a muscle located in the neck, specifically in the anterior part of the larynx. It is responsible for the tension and length of the vocal cords, which in turn affects the pitch of the voice.

Anatomy

The Cricothyroid muscle is a small, triangular muscle that is part of the larynx. It is located on the front of the neck, just below the thyroid cartilage (Adam's apple). The muscle originates from the side of the cricoid cartilage and inserts into the lower margin of the thyroid cartilage.

Function

The primary function of the cricothyroid muscle is to tense and elongate the vocal cords. This is achieved by tilting the thyroid cartilage forward, which in turn stretches the vocal cords. This stretching increases the pitch of the voice.

Clinical significance

Damage to the cricothyroid muscle or its innervating nerve, the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve, can result in voice changes. This can include difficulty in changing pitch or a hoarse, weak voice. In severe cases, it can lead to vocal cord paralysis.

See also

• Larynx
• Vocal cords
• Thyroid cartilage
• Cricoid cartilage

References

Cricothyroid Resources
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