SUPRAGLOTTIC Meaning and
Definition
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Supraglottic refers to any anatomical structure or process that occurs above or on top of the glottis. The glottis is the opening between the vocal cords in the larynx that controls airflow to and from the lungs during breathing and speech production.
In the context of human anatomy, the supraglottic region includes various structures located above the glottis. This region encompasses the epiglottis, which is a flap-like cartilage that helps to prevent food or liquids from entering the airway during swallowing. Additionally, it includes the aryepiglottic folds, which are folds of tissue that connect the arytenoid cartilages to the epiglottis, forming the lateral boundaries of the laryngeal inlet.
Supraglottic structures play a crucial role in protecting the airway and facilitating speech production. They contribute to the control of sound production by modulating airflow and vocal cord function. They are also involved in the swallowing process, ensuring that food and liquid pass down the esophagus while minimizing the risk of aspiration into the respiratory tract.
In medical contexts, the term supraglottic may also refer to specific medical devices or procedures that are used above the glottis, such as supraglottic airway devices. These devices are designed to maintain an open airway during anesthesia or resuscitation and are placed above the glottis to allow for adequate ventilation. Understanding the supraglottic region's anatomy is essential for medical professionals when performing procedures or treating conditions that involve this specific area of the upper airway.
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Above the glottis, or chink between the vocal cords.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SUPRAGLOTTIC
Etymology of SUPRAGLOTTIC
The word "supraglottic" is derived from the combination of two roots: "supra-" and "glottic".
1. "Supra-" is a Latin prefix meaning "above" or "over". It is commonly used in English to indicate something that is situated above or beyond another thing.
2. "Glottic" relates to the glottis, which is a part of the larynx involved in the production of speech sounds. The glottis is located between the vocal cords.
Therefore, when combined, the word "supraglottic" refers to something that is located or related to an area above the glottis, such as structures or procedures performed above the level of the vocal cords in the larynx.
