Corniculate cartilages

Small, horn-shaped cartilages that form part of the laryngeal structure.

Corniculate cartilages are tiny, rod-like structures that sit atop the arytenoid cartilages within the larynx. They are paired cartilages that play a vital role in the function and structure of the voice box, contributing to the integrity of the airway and the phonation process. Their name is derived from the Latin word 'corniculatus,' meaning 'horned', reflecting their distinctive shape.

Terminologia Anatomica

cartilago corniculate

System

Respiratory system

Function

The primary function of the corniculate cartilages is to support the arytenoid cartilages, helping to control the vocal cords' tension and position during sound production. This support is crucial for the opening and closing motions of the vocal cords, which are essential for phonation. When air passes through the larynx, the corniculate cartilages assist in adjusting the vocal folds' gap, allowing for variations in pitch and volume. Without the corniculate cartilages, the precise maneuvers necessary for articulate speech and complex vocalizations would be compromised, underscoring their importance in both communication and respiratory functions.

Location

Corniculate cartilages are located in the larynx, specifically resting on the summit of the arytenoid cartilages. The larynx itself is situated in the neck region, anterior to the esophagus and extending from the base of the tongue to the trachea. More specifically, the corniculate cartilages are positioned at the posterior, superior part of the larynx, nestled in a way that allows them to effectively interact with adjacent structures, including the vocal cords and intrinsic laryngeal muscles. Their confinement to this complex space highlights their pivotal role in the intricate balance of airway protection and sound production.

Did You Know?

Corniculate cartilages are often overlooked in discussions of laryngeal anatomy but play a crucial role in voice modulation.
The flexible nature of these cartilages allows them to adapt slightly during vocalization, contributing to sound quality.
Although small, the corniculate cartilages are essential for producing a wide range of vocal sounds, indicating that size doesn’t always correlate with importance in anatomy.