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larynx
anatomy
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Also known as: voice box
- Key People:
- Theodor Billroth
- Related Topics:
- vocal cord glottis epiglottis aryepiglottic fold electric larynx
larynx, also called voice box, a hollow, tubular structure connected to the top of the windpipe (trachea); air passes through the larynx on its way to the lungs. The larynx also produces vocal sounds and prevents the passage of food and other foreign particles into the lower respiratory tracts. The larynx is composed of an external skeleton of cartilage plates that prevents collapse of the structure. The plates are fastened together by membranes and muscle fibres. The front set of plates, called thyroid cartilage, has a central ridge and elevation commonly known as the Adam’s apple. The plates tend to ...(100 of 416 words)