The Mechanics of Laryngeal Function

Abstract

Mechanics of the internal movement of the larynx are based mainly on laryngeal articulations, muscles and their nervous control. A review of the present concept of mechanics of the crico-arytenoid and the crico-thyroid joints suggests a re-evaluation of the action of various laryngeal muscles, internal and external. Percutaneous electromyographic study of various laryngeal muscles invites a modification of the concept of the action of the different functional groups of internal laryngeal muscles. The influence of the external laryngeal muscles on the size and configurations of the laryngeal chink is also stressed. A review is given of the different considerations of the mechanism of action of the external laryngeal muscles on the vocal folds' position and tension. A short survey of the motor control and afferent outflow of the larynx is presented. This demonstrates the complexity of the nervous control of the larynx and the uncertainties concerning the details of its function.