Cricoid cartilage

A crucial component of the laryngeal structure, providing support and protection for the airway.

Cricoid cartilage is a ring-shaped piece of cartilage located in the neck that forms part of the larynx. It sits below the thyroid cartilage and above the first tracheal ring. This structure is unique because it is the only complete ring of cartilage in the airway, offering stability and maintaining the shape of the trachea.

Terminologia Anatomica

cartilago cricoidea

System

Respiratory system

Function

The cricoid cartilage serves several important functions in the body, particularly in the respiratory system. It plays a critical role in supporting the larynx and providing a foundation for various muscles and ligaments connected to it. This stability allows for the proper functioning of the vocal cords during speech production. Additionally, it helps to protect the airway from external pressures, ensuring that it remains open for airflow. The cricoid cartilage also aids in swallowing and prevents food from entering the trachea, as it helps to form a barrier between the esophagus and respiratory tract. In emergencies, the cricoid pressure technique can be used to maintain an open airway during intubation, showcasing its significance in medical procedures.

Location

Located in the anterior neck region, the cricoid cartilage is positioned below the thyroid cartilage and above the trachea at the level of the sixth cervical vertebra (C6). It has a somewhat cylindrical shape, with the posterior part having a wider profile compared to the anterior section, which is narrower and resembles a band. This unique positioning at the junction of the larynx and trachea places it as a central structure in the airway, bridging the gap between the throat and the windpipe.

Did You Know?

The cricoid cartilage is often referred to as a 'complete ring' due to its uninterrupted circular shape.
During an emergency, cricothyrotomy, a surgical procedure to create an airway, may involve incising the cricothyroid membrane located just above the cricoid.
The cricoid cartilage is not just a static structure; it has a role in dynamic movements during breathing and phonation.
In some animals, the cricoid cartilage is much more developed, aiding their unique vocalizations.