Lateral cricoarytenoid muscle

Lateral Cricoarytenoid Muscle

The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle is an important muscle located in the larynx, specifically between the cricoid cartilage and the arytenoid cartilage. It plays a crucial role in the process of phonation, which is the production of sound by the vocal cords.

Anatomy

The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle originates from the lateral surface of the cricoid cartilage, near the arch. It then inserts into the muscular process of the arytenoid cartilage. This muscle is paired, meaning there is one on each side of the larynx.

Function

The main function of the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle is to adduct the vocal cords. When this muscle contracts, it brings the arytenoid cartilages closer to the midline, causing the vocal cords to come together. This closure of the vocal cords is essential for the production of sound during speech and singing.

Clinical Significance

The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle is crucial for normal vocal cord function. Any dysfunction or impairment of this muscle can lead to voice disorders, such as vocal cord paralysis or paresis. These conditions can result in hoarseness, breathiness, and difficulty in producing certain sounds.

Related Muscles

The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle works in coordination with other muscles in the larynx to control vocal cord movement. Some of the related muscles include:

• Thyroarytenoid muscle
• Posterior cricoarytenoid muscle
• Interarytenoid muscle

See Also

• Larynx
• Vocal cords
• Phonation