Muscle of the larynx
The arytenoid muscle or interarytenoid muscle is a composite intrinsic muscle of the larynx, consisting of a transverse part and an oblique part - the two parts may be considered as separate muscles: an unpaired transverse arytenoid muscle, and a bilaterally paired oblique arytenoid muscle.[1]
The two constituent parts differ in their attachments, structure and actions. Both receive motor innervation from the recurrent laryngeal nerve(s) (each nerve being a branch of one vagus nerve (CN X)).[1]
Clinical significance
Electromyography
Function of the arytenoid muscle is a good method to determine function of the recurrent laryngeal nerve.[2] Continuous electromyography of the arytenoid muscle can provide confidence to surgeons that the recurrent laryngeal nerve is not damaged during neck surgeries, such as thyroidectomy.[2]
Other animals
The arytenoid muscle is found in many animals, including dogs.[3]
Additional images
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The cartilages of the larynx. Posterior view.
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Muscles of larynx. Side view. Right lamina of thyroid cartilage removed.
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Aryepiglotic muscle
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Muscles of the larynx, seen from above.
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Dissection of the muscles of the palate from behind.
References
