Arytenoid muscle

Arytenoid Muscle

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The Arytenoid muscle is a small, paired muscle in the larynx, the part of the throat that houses the vocal cords. It is named after the arytenoid cartilage to which it is attached. The muscle plays a crucial role in vocalization by controlling the tension and position of the vocal cords.

Structure

The arytenoid muscle is divided into two parts: the oblique arytenoid muscle and the transverse arytenoid muscle. The oblique part originates from the muscular process of the arytenoid cartilage and inserts into the apex of the opposite arytenoid cartilage and the aryepiglottic fold. The transverse part connects the posterior surfaces of the arytenoid cartilages.

Function

The arytenoid muscles function to adduct or abduct the vocal cords by rotating the arytenoid cartilages, thereby controlling the size of the glottis (the space between the vocal cords) and the tension of the vocal cords. This allows for changes in pitch and volume of the voice.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction of the arytenoid muscle can lead to voice disorders, including hoarseness, dysphonia, and aphonia. It can also contribute to laryngeal paralysis, a condition in which the vocal cords cannot move.

See also

• Larynx
• Vocal cords
• Voice disorders