Thyrohyoid muscle

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== Thyrohyoid Muscle ==

The thyrohyoid muscle is a small skeletal muscle located in the neck. It is part of the infrahyoid muscles group, which also includes the sternohyoid muscle, sternothyroid muscle, and omohyoid muscle. The primary function of the thyrohyoid muscle is to depress the hyoid bone and elevate the larynx during swallowing and speech.

Anatomy

The thyrohyoid muscle originates from the oblique line on the thyroid cartilage of the larynx. It inserts into the lower border of the body and the greater horn of the hyoid bone. The muscle is innervated by the hypoglossal nerve (cranial nerve XII) via fibers from the first cervical nerve (C1).

Function

The main actions of the thyrohyoid muscle include:

• Depressing the hyoid bone
• Elevating the larynx during swallowing and speech

These actions are crucial for proper swallowing mechanics and vocalization.

Innervation

The thyrohyoid muscle is innervated by the hypoglossal nerve (cranial nerve XII) through fibers from the first cervical nerve (C1). This unique innervation is shared with the geniohyoid muscle.

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the thyrohyoid muscle is primarily provided by branches of the superior thyroid artery, which is a branch of the external carotid artery.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction or damage to the thyrohyoid muscle can affect swallowing and speech. Conditions such as thyroidectomy or neck trauma may impact the muscle's function.

Related Pages

• Infrahyoid muscles
• Hyoid bone
• Larynx
• Hypoglossal nerve
• Superior thyroid artery
• Swallowing
• Speech