LARYNX

LARYNX

Definition

• The larynx is a cartilaginous structure located in the neck, situated between the trachea and the pharynx.
• It is also known as the voice box.
• The larynx is a complex organ that plays a crucial role in the respiratory and digestive systems.

Types

• Adenoidal Larynx: A rare congenital anomaly where the larynx is enlarged due to the presence of adenoid tissue.
• Webbed Larynx: A congenital anomaly where the laryngeal cartilages are partially fused, resulting in a web-like appearance.
• Stenotic Larynx: A congenital anomaly where the laryngeal opening is narrowed, causing difficulty in breathing.

Applied Anatomy

• The larynx is composed of three main cartilaginous structures: the epiglottis, the thyroid cartilage, and the cricoid cartilage.
• The epiglottis is a leaf-like structure that separates the trachea from the esophagus.
• The thyroid cartilage is the largest cartilaginous structure in the larynx and forms the Adam's apple.
• The cricoid cartilage is a ring-like structure that surrounds the trachea.
• The laryngeal muscles are responsible for the movement of the vocal cords and the opening and closing of the glottis.

Functions

• Respiration: The larynx plays a crucial role in the regulation of airflow during respiration.
• Swallowing: The larynx helps to prevent food and liquids from entering the trachea during swallowing.
• Voice Production: The larynx is responsible for the production of sound during speech and singing.

Examination of Larynx

• Indirect Laryngoscopy: A procedure where a flexible or rigid endoscope is used to visualize the larynx.
• Direct Laryngoscopy: A procedure where a rigid endoscope is used to visualize the larynx.
• Laryngoscopy with a Laryngoscope: A procedure where a laryngoscope is used to visualize the larynx.

Pathology

• Laryngeal Cancer: A type of cancer that affects the larynx.
• Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
• Laryngoscopy: A procedure where a flexible or rigid endoscope is used to visualize the larynx.

Clinical Features

• Hoarseness: A change in voice quality due to inflammation or irritation of the larynx.
• Difficulty in Breathing: Difficulty in breathing due to narrowing of the laryngeal opening.
• Coughing: Coughing due to inflammation or irritation of the larynx.

Investigations

• Laryngoscopy: A procedure where a flexible or rigid endoscope is used to visualize the larynx.
• Biopsy: A procedure where a tissue sample is removed from the larynx for examination.
• CT Scan: A procedure where a cross-sectional image of the larynx is created using X-rays.

Complications

• Respiratory Failure: Respiratory failure due to narrowing of the laryngeal opening.
• Aspiration: Aspiration of food or liquids into the trachea during swallowing.
• Laryngeal Stenosis: Narrowing of the laryngeal opening due to scarring or inflammation.

Management

• Conservative Management: Management of laryngeal conditions using medication and lifestyle changes.
• Surgical Management: Management of laryngeal conditions using surgery.
• Radiation Therapy: Management of laryngeal cancer using radiation therapy.

Blood Supply

• The larynx is supplied by the inferior thyroid artery, the external carotid artery, and the internal carotid artery.
• The larynx receives its blood supply from the superior laryngeal artery and the inferior laryngeal artery.

Nerve Supply

• The larynx is innervated by the superior laryngeal nerve and the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
• The superior laryngeal nerve is responsible for the sensory innervation of the larynx.
• The recurrent laryngeal nerve is responsible for the motor innervation of the larynx.

Homoeopathic Therapeutic Medicines

• Arsenicum Album: Indicated for laryngitis and hoarseness.
• Kali Muriaticum: Indicated for laryngeal inflammation and irritation.
• Lycopodium Clavatum: Indicated for laryngeal cancer and difficulty in breathing.
• Sulphur: Indicated for laryngitis and coughing.

Clinical Anatomy

• The larynx is a complex organ that plays a crucial role in the respiratory and digestive systems.
• The larynx is composed of three main cartilaginous structures: the epiglottis, the thyroid cartilage, and the cricoid cartilage.
• The laryngeal muscles are responsible for the movement of the vocal cords and the opening and closing of the glottis.
• The larynx is supplied by the inferior thyroid artery, the external carotid artery, and the internal carotid artery.
• The larynx is innervated by the superior laryngeal nerve and the recurrent laryngeal nerve.