The term "nervus laryngeus superior" refers to a branch of the vagus nerve (also known as the cranial nerve X) that is responsible for innervating certain muscles and structures located within the larynx (voice box) in the neck region.
The nervus laryngeus superior originates from the superior ganglion of the vagus nerve, which is situated near the base of the skull. It descends downwards to supply sensory and motor innervation to various components of the larynx.
In terms of sensory distribution, the nervus laryngeus superior carries sensory information from the mucous membranes of the larynx, including the epiglottis, aryepiglottic folds, and the superior surface of the vocal cords. This sensory input is essential for perceiving sensations such as touch, temperature, and pain within the laryngeal region.
In terms of motor function, the nervus laryngeus superior innervates several intrinsic muscles of the larynx, including the cricothyroid muscle. The cricothyroid muscle plays a crucial role in adjusting vocal cord tension, contributing to changes in pitch or vocal tone during speech and singing.
Damage or compression of the nervus laryngeus superior may lead to various symptoms such as changes in vocal quality, hoarseness, reduced vocal range, difficulty in projecting the voice, or impaired control of pitch modulation. These effects can impact an individual's ability to communicate effectively and may require medical intervention to address the underlying cause and restore normal laryngeal function.
