Epiglottic vallecula

The epiglottic vallecula (plural: valleculae) is a small mucosa-lined depression located between the root of the tongue and the lingual surface of the epiglottis. The median glossoepiglottic fold divides the region into right and left valleculae, while the lateral glossoepiglottic folds form their lateral boundaries. Situated at the junction of the oropharynx and laryngeal inlet, the valleculae help mark the transition between the pharynx and larynx.

Functions

Functionally, the epiglottic valleculae act as reservoirs for saliva and small amounts of food, helping to prevent continuous stimulation of the swallowing reflex, particularly during sleep.

Vasculature, lymphatics, and innervation

They are supplied by branches of the lingual and facial arteries, drain via the lingual veins and pharyngeal venous plexus, and their lymphatic drainage is primarily to the deep cervical lymph nodes. Sensory innervation is mainly provided by the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX).

Clinical correlates

Clinically, the epiglottic vallecula is an important landmark during direct laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation. The tip of a Macintosh laryngoscope blade is placed in the vallecula to elevate the epiglottis indirectly and expose the vocal cords. Foreign bodies such as fish bones may become lodged in this region, and vallecular cysts may cause dysphagia, feeding difficulties, voice changes, or airway obstruction.