LIGAMENTUM CRICOTHYREOIDEUM Meaning and
Definition
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The ligamentum cricothyreoideum, also known as the cricothyroid ligament, is a key anatomical structure located in the throat area. It is positioned between the cricoid cartilage and the thyroid cartilage, two vital structures that make up the larynx, commonly referred to as the voice box.
This ligament is a strong, fibrous band that connects the cricoid and thyroid cartilages, forming a joint within the larynx. Its primary function is to provide stability and support to the laryngeal structures, facilitating their proper movement during various vocal activities such as speaking and singing.
The ligamentum cricothyreoideum is crucial for the tension and pitch modulation of the vocal cords. When the cricothyroid muscle contracts, it causes the cricoid and thyroid cartilages to pivot and stretch the vocal cords, resulting in the increase in pitch and tension necessary for high-pitched sounds. Conversely, relaxation of this muscle allows the vocal cords to return to a lower pitch.
In addition to its role in voice production, it also plays a crucial role in protecting the airway during swallowing and breathing. The cricothyroid ligament helps maintain the openness of the air passage and allows for the flow of air between the outer environment and the lungs.
Overall, the ligamentum cricothyreoideum is a vital anatomical structure that contributes to vocalization, airway protection, and the overall functioning of the larynx.
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The strong, tense, middle portion of the cricothyroid membrane.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LIGAMENTUM CRICOTHYREOIDEUM
- ligam entum cricothyreoideum
- ligame ntum cricothyreoideum
- ligamen tum cricothyreoideum
- ligament um cricothyreoideum
- ligamentu m cricothyreoideum
- ligamentum c ricothyreoideum
- ligamentum cr icothyreoideum
- ligamentum cri cothyreoideum
- ligamentum cric othyreoideum
- ligamentum crico thyreoideum
- ligamentum cricot hyreoideum
- ligamentum cricoth yreoideum
- ligamentum cricothy reoideum
- ligamentum cricothyr eoideum
- ligamentum cricothyre oideum
- ligamentum cricothyreo ideum
- ligamentum cricothyreoi deum
- ligamentum cricothyreoid eum
- ligamentum cricothyreoide um
- ligamentum cricothyreoideu m
Etymology of LIGAMENTUM CRICOTHYREOIDEUM
The word "ligamentum cricothyreoideum" is derived from Latin and Greek roots. Here is a breakdown of the etymology:
1. Ligamentum: This is a Latin word meaning "ligament" or "band". It is derived from the Latin verb "ligare", which means "to bind" or "to tie".
2. Cricothyreoideum: This term consists of two main roots combined together:
a. Crico-: This prefix comes from the Greek word "krikos", meaning "ring" or "hoop". It is used in anatomy to refer to structures related to the cricoid cartilage, a ring-shaped structure in the larynx.
b. -thyreoideum: This suffix is derived from the Greek word "thyreoeidēs", which means "shield-shaped" or "thyroid".
