Larynx

The larynx is a hollow organ in the neck between the pharynx and trachea. It houses the vocal folds and helps protect the airway during swallowing.

Vocal folds: Paired tissue folds in the larynx that vibrate to produce most voiced sounds. Airflow sets them vibrating to generate the larynx’s sound source.
Pharynx: A muscular passage behind the nose and mouth that carries air toward the larynx and food toward the esophagus. It is the passage directly above the larynx.
Laryngoscopy: Examination of the larynx using a mirror or an endoscope. It lets clinicians inspect vocal folds and other laryngeal structures.
Esophagus: A muscular tube that carries swallowed material from the pharynx to the stomach. It carries food beside the airway, while the larynx channels air toward the trachea.
Epiglottis: A leaf-shaped flap of elastic cartilage at the entrance to the larynx. It helps direct swallowed material away from the airway.
Trachea: A tube reinforced with cartilage that carries air from the larynx to the bronchi. It continues the airway immediately below the larynx.
Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx, often causing hoarseness or temporary voice loss. Inflammation can disrupt vocal-fold vibration.
Glottis: The space between the vocal folds, together with the folds that bound it. It is a specific opening within the larynx, not the entire organ.
Laryngeal cartilages: Cartilaginous structures that form the framework of the larynx. They support the airway and provide attachment points for muscles and vocal folds.
Hyoid bone: A U-shaped bone in the neck that supports the tongue and anchors muscles involved in swallowing and speech. It suspends the larynx through muscles and connective tissues.

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