Infraglottic cavity

Infraglottic cavity is a part of the larynx that is located below the vocal cords. It extends from the vocal cords to the trachea. The infraglottic cavity is also known as the subglottis.

Etymology

The term "infraglottic" is derived from the Latin "infra", meaning "below", and "glottis", which refers to the part of the larynx consisting of the vocal cords and the opening between them.

Anatomy

The infraglottic cavity is a cylindrical space that is continuous with the laryngeal ventricle above and the trachea below. It is lined by respiratory epithelium, which is a type of tissue that also lines the rest of the respiratory tract. The infraglottic cavity is surrounded by the cricoid cartilage, which provides structural support.

Function

The primary function of the infraglottic cavity is to channel air from the larynx into the trachea and then to the lungs. It also plays a role in phonation, as the size and shape of the infraglottic cavity can affect the quality of the voice.

Related Terms

• Larynx: The organ in the throat involved in breathing, producing sound, and protecting the trachea against food aspiration.
• Vocal cords: Two bands of smooth muscle tissue found in the larynx that vibrate to produce sound.
• Trachea: The large airway that leads from the larynx to the bronchi of the lungs.
• Respiratory epithelium: A type of tissue that lines the respiratory tract.
• Cricoid cartilage: The only complete ring of cartilage around the trachea, it forms the back part of the voice box.

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  Infraglottic cavity of a horse
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  Infraglottic cavity slide 1
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  Infraglottic cavity slide 2
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  Infraglottic cavity slide 3