Supraglottis

• The supraglottis represents the uppermost part of the larynx, situated directly above the vocal cords.
• Its primary function is to protect the airway during swallowing, effectively preventing food and liquids from entering the trachea.
• Key anatomical components include the epiglottis, aryepiglottic folds, arytenoids, and false vocal cords.
• This region is crucial for both normal respiration and the production of voice.
• Dysfunction or disorders of the supraglottis can significantly impact an individual’s ability to breathe, swallow, and speak.

What is Supraglottis?

The Supraglottis refers to the uppermost section of the larynx, or voice box, positioned directly above the glottis, which houses the true vocal cords. This vital anatomical region functions as a critical protective gateway, primarily safeguarding the airway from the inadvertent entry of food and liquids during the act of swallowing. Essentially, it acts as the primary defense mechanism against aspiration, meticulously directing ingested material into the esophagus rather than the trachea.

The supraglottic region explained encompasses a complex interplay of structures that collectively perform its essential protective and respiratory functions. Its strategic location of supraglottis in throat is superior to the true vocal cords and inferior to the base of the tongue, forming a crucial anatomical junction where the digestive and respiratory tracts diverge. This precise positioning enables it to effectively close off the airway when necessary, while remaining open to facilitate unhindered breathing and vocalization at other times. Understanding this region is fundamental to diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the upper aerodigestive tract.

Supraglottis Anatomy and Function

The Supraglottis anatomy and function are intricately intertwined, with each component playing a specific role in the overall operation of this critical laryngeal segment. This region is composed of several distinct structures working in concert:

• Epiglottis: This prominent, leaf-shaped cartilage is the most recognizable part of the supraglottis. During the act of swallowing, it reflexively folds downward and backward, effectively covering the laryngeal inlet. This action is crucial, as it acts like a protective lid, preventing food and liquid from entering the trachea and subsequently the lungs.
• Aryepiglottic Folds: These are triangular folds of mucous membrane and connective tissue that extend from the lateral borders of the epiglottis to the arytenoid cartilages. They contribute significantly to narrowing the laryngeal opening during swallowing, enhancing the protective seal, and providing structural support to the supraglottic framework.
• Arytenoid Cartilages: While their primary role is in vocal cord movement, the superior aspects of the arytenoids are functionally integrated into the supraglottis. They serve as attachment points for the aryepiglottic folds and contribute to the complex mechanism of closing the laryngeal inlet during deglutition.
• False Vocal Cords (Ventricular Folds): Situated superior to the true vocal cords, these thick folds do not typically produce sound. Instead, their main function is to assist in the complete closure of the airway during swallowing and to provide an additional layer of protection. They can also be engaged during activities requiring increased intrathoracic pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, or heavy lifting.
• Laryngeal Ventricles: These are small, spindle-shaped pouches or recesses located between the false and true vocal cords. While their precise function is still a subject of research, they are thought to contribute to vocal resonance and provide necessary space for the true vocal cords to vibrate freely during phonation.

The paramount function of the supraglottis is to ensure the safe and efficient separation of the respiratory and digestive pathways. During normal respiration, the supraglottis remains open, allowing for unobstructed airflow to and from the lungs. Conversely, during swallowing, a sophisticated neurological reflex triggers the elevation of the entire larynx and the simultaneous downward folding of the epiglottis. This coordinated action creates a robust seal over the airway, preventing aspiration and directing ingested material safely into the esophagus. Beyond its protective role, the supraglottis also plays a secondary but important role in modifying the sound of the voice, contributing to its unique resonance and quality.