Transverse Arytenoid (Musculus arytenoideus transversus)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
The transverse arytenoid is the only single (unpaired) intrinsic muscle of the larynx. Situated on the posterior aspects of both arytenoid cartilages, it forms a stout horizontal muscular bridge connecting the two cartilages across the posterior midline. It pulls the arytenoids together to close the posterior cartilaginous part of the rima glottidis.
Origin & insertion
From the posterior surface and lateral border of one arytenoid cartilage to the posterior surface and lateral border of the contralateral arytenoid cartilage.
Action
Adducts both arytenoid cartilages, closing the posterior (intercartilaginous) portion of the rima glottidis during phonation and cough.
Innervation
Recurrent laryngeal nerve (branch of vagus nerve, cranial nerve X).
Clinical notes
Weakness or paralysis of the transverse arytenoid prevents complete posterior glottic closure, creating a triangular posterior glottic chink that produces an airy, breathy voice.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Transverse Arytenoid?
The transverse arytenoid is the only single (unpaired) intrinsic muscle of the larynx. Situated on the posterior aspects of both arytenoid cartilages, it forms a stout horizontal muscular bridge connecting the two cartilages across the posterior midline. It pulls the arytenoids together to close the posterior cartilaginous part of the rima glottidis.
Why is the Transverse Arytenoid clinically important?
Weakness or paralysis of the transverse arytenoid prevents complete posterior glottic closure, creating a triangular posterior glottic chink that produces an airy, breathy voice.
Source & license
BodyParts3D, © The Database Center for Life Science licensed under CC Attribution 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). license details