THYROARYTENOID MUSCLES Meaning and
Definition
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The thyroarytenoid muscles, also known as the vocalis muscles, are a pair of paired intrinsic laryngeal muscles located within the neck region. These muscles are situated on the inside of the thyroid cartilage, more specifically on the anterior surface of the arytenoid cartilages. The thyroarytenoid muscles are crucial for vocalization, as they play a vital role in controlling voice production and regulating the tension and thickness of the vocal folds.
Functionally, the thyroarytenoid muscles assist in vocal fold adduction, allowing for the production of sound by bringing the vocal folds together. They also contribute to changes in pitch and vocal quality. When the muscles contract, they shorten and thicken the vocal folds, resulting in a lower pitch. Conversely, relaxation of these muscles elongates and thins the vocal folds, leading to a higher pitch.
The thyroarytenoid muscles receive innervation from the recurrent laryngeal nerves, which are branches of the vagus nerve. These nerves provide essential motor signals that control the contraction and relaxation of the thyroarytenoid muscles.
Various conditions can affect the thyroarytenoid muscles, potentially leading to voice disorders. For example, spasms or tension in these muscles can lead to a strained or hoarse voice. Additionally, degenerative conditions, trauma, or diseases such as vocal fold paralysis can impact the functioning of these muscles, resulting in voice disturbances. Treatment for thyroarytenoid muscle-related voice problems may involve vocal therapy, medication, or surgical interventions, depending on the underlying cause.
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The external is the musculus thyreoarytaenoideus, the internal is the musculus vocalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for THYROARYTENOID MUSCLES
Etymology of THYROARYTENOID MUSCLES
The word "thyroarytenoid" can be broken down into its Greek components to understand its etymology:
1. Thyro: The prefix "thyro-" derives from the Greek word "thureos", which means "shield". In this context, it refers to the thyroid cartilage, a shield-shaped structure in the throat that protects the vocal cords.
2. Arytenoid: The word "arytenoid" comes from the Greek term "arytaina", meaning "ladle" or "spoon". This refers to the arytenoid cartilages, which are small, spoon-like structures located in the larynx. These cartilages play a crucial role in vocal cord movement and control.
3. Muscles: The term "muscles" is derived from the Latin word "musculus", meaning "little mouse".
