Epiglottis

The epiglottis is a single midline leaf-shaped fibrocartilaginous structure that forms part of the supraglottic larynx and defines the division of the hypopharynx from the larynx.

Gross anatomy

The epiglottis projects posterosuperiorly from its stem-like base, which is attached to the thyroid cartilage. It is also attached to the base of the tongue (via median glossoepiglottic folds) and is attached to the pharynx (via lateral glossoepiglottic folds).

Innervation

The mucosa lining the epiglottis is supplied by the internal laryngeal nerve, a branch of the superior laryngeal nerve from the vagus nerve (CN X).

Variant anatomy

• omega epiglottis
• bifid epiglottis 
• absent epiglottis

Related pathology

• epiglottitis
• epiglottic cysts

Siehe auch:

• Epiglottitis
• Omega epiglottis
• Epiglottiskarzinom
• Epiglottiszyste
• Verkalkungen der Epiglottis

und weiter:

• Schlund