Sternothyroid muscle

Sternothyroid muscle is a muscle located in the anterior portion of the neck, specifically in the infrahyoid region. It is one of the four infrahyoid muscles, along with the sternohyoid, thyrohyoid, and omohyoid muscles. The primary function of the sternothyroid muscle is to depress the thyroid cartilage, which plays a crucial role in speech and swallowing.

Anatomy

The sternothyroid muscle originates from the posterior surface of the manubrium of the sternum and the first costal cartilage. It inserts into the oblique line on the lamina of the thyroid cartilage. The muscle is innervated by the ansa cervicalis, a loop of nerves that is part of the cervical plexus.

Function

The sternothyroid muscle depresses the larynx and the hyoid bone if the sternum is fixed, or it can elevate the sternum when the hyoid is fixed. This is important for swallowing and vocalizing.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction or injury to the sternothyroid muscle can result in difficulty swallowing or changes in voice. It may also be involved in conditions such as thyroid disorders or neck injuries.

See also

• Infrahyoid muscles
• Thyroid cartilage
• Ansa cervicalis

References

Sternothyroid muscle Resources
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