Structure/Morphology
The epiglottis is connected to the pharyngeal surface of the tongue and the lateral pharynx by a median glossoepiglottic and two lateral glossoepiglottic ligaments, respectively. Between the median and lateral glossoepiglottic ligaments on both sides are small depressions termed the valleculae.
Function
The valecullae function to hold small pools of saliva so the swallow reflex is not continually triggered.
List of Clinical Correlates
- Swallow reflex
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Epiglottis
The epiglottis is a supraglottic laryngeal structure with a mobile suprahyoid portion that moves to cover the entry to the larynx and diverting food from entering the respiratory tract during swallowing, and a fixed infrahyoid portion, forming the anterior aspect of the supraglottic cavity, that terminates in a petiole, with the thyroepiglottic ligament attaching it to the thyroid cartilage just above the false vocal folds.
