The spelling of the medical term "membrana elastica laryngis" may seem daunting at first glance. However, breaking it down by its individual parts can help make sense of its pronunciation. "Membrana" is pronounced as "mem-bruh-nuh" while "elastica" is pronounced as "ee-las-ti-kuh." Finally, "laryngis" is pronounced as "luh-ring-jis." Altogether, the word is pronounced as "mehm-brah-nuh ee-las-ti-kuh luh-ring-jis." This term refers to the elastic membrane that forms the vocal ligament in the larynx, which helps produce sound when speaking.
Membrana elastica laryngis, also known as the elastic membrane of the larynx, is a anatomical structure located within the larynx, or voice box. It is a flexible and elastic tissue that plays a crucial role in producing sound and protecting the vocal folds.
The membrana elastica laryngis consists of two distinct components: the vocal ligament and the vocalis muscle. The vocal ligament is a band of tough, fibrous connective tissue that spans horizontally across the larynx. It runs parallel to the vocal folds and provides stability and support to them. The vocalis muscle, on the other hand, is a thin layer of smooth muscle fibers that lies beneath the vocal ligament. It aids in controlling the tension and position of the vocal folds, allowing for variations in pitch and volume.
The overall structure of the membrana elastica laryngis enables it to stretch, vibrate, and relax in response to the movement of air passing through the larynx. When air is exhaled, it causes the vocal folds to vibrate against each other, producing sound waves that create vocalization. The membrana elastica laryngis assists in adjusting the tension and position of the vocal folds, which in turn affects the pitch and quality of the voice.
In summary, the membrana elastica laryngis is an elastic membrane within the larynx that consists of the vocal ligament and vocalis muscle. Its flexibility and unique composition enable it to play a vital role in sound production and vocalization.
A layer of elastic fibers, taking the place in the larynx of the submucosa.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.