MEDIAN CRICOTHYROID LIGAMENT

The anterior or middle part of the Cricothyroid Ligament is known as Median Cricothyroid Ligament. It is thick, strong and narrow from above and wide from below. It connects the front parts of Thyroid and Cricoid Cartilages.

ANATOMY

Larynx has six different kinds of cartilages i.e.

• Thyroid

• Arytenoid

• Cricoid

• Corniculate

• Cuneiform

• Epiglottic

The function of Cricothyroid Ligament is to connect the Thyroid Ligament with Arch of Cricoid Cartilage while limiting the anterior-posterior rocking movements of Thyroid Cartilage on the Cricoid Cartilage. The Cricothyroid Ligament and Vocal Ligaments are covered with elastic fibers known as Conus Elasticus. Cricoid Cartilage and Thyroid Cartilage are joined together by Cricothyroid Ligament.

BLOOD SUPPLY

The cricothyroid Ligament has a Cricothyroid Artery which is located in the middle of it.

ARTICULATIONS

Thyroid Cartilage and Cricoid Cartilage are articulated with Synovial Joints which are moved by the help of Cricothyroid Ligaments.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In the case of emergency of airway obstruction the Cricothyroid Ligament and membrane are cut in between the Thyroid Cartilage and Cricothyroid Cartilage to make an airway in the Larynx. The procedure is called Cricothyrotomy. It is an easier procedure to perform than Tracheotomy and can be performed by any medical personnel.