University of Pittsburgh Voice Center
Anatomy and Examination of the Larynx (Voice
Box)
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of four basic anatomic components: a cartilaginous
skeleton, intrinsic and extrinsic muscles, and a mucosal lining
The cartilaginous skeleton, which houses the vocal cords, is comprised of
the thyroid, cricoid, and arytenoid cartilages (Fig.1). These cartilages
are connected to other structures of the head and neck
through the extrinsic muscles. The intrinsic muscles of the larynx
alter the position, shape and tension of the vocal folds (Fig. 2)
Functions of the Larynx
The larynx functions in deglutition (swallowing), respiration (breathing), and phonation (voice production).
The production of voice can be thought of in terms of three
components: the production of airflow, the generation and resonance of sound and the articulation of voice. (Fig.2)
Production of Airflow
The lungs first supply adequate airflow to overcome the resistance of the adducted vocal cords. The vocal cords are finely tuned neuromuscular units that adjust pitch and tone by altering their position and tension.
Sound Production
Sound production occurs due to the vibration of the mucosa at the inner
edge of each vocal cord. Thus any structural, inflammatory, or
neoplastic lesion of the vocal cord affects voice production and
quality (Fig.3).
Articulation of Voice
Final modification of the voice occurs in the mouth, nose and throat,
where the tongue, palate, cheek and lips are involved in
articulation.(speech production)