Median glossoepiglottic fold

The median glossoepiglottic fold is a midline mucosal fold that extends from the posterior aspect of the tongue to the anterior (lingual) surface of the epiglottis. It divides the space between the tongue and epiglottis into right and left epiglottic valleculae.

Function

Functionally, it helps maintain the anatomical relationship between the tongue and epiglottis and contributes to the formation of the valleculae, which act as reservoirs for saliva and assist in the coordination of swallowing.

Clinical correlate

Clinically, the median glossoepiglottic fold serves as an important landmark during laryngoscopy, as the valleculae located on either side of the fold are used for placement of the Macintosh laryngoscope blade during endotracheal intubation