Synovial joints of larynx

The laryngeal joints (Joints of larynx) comprise two paired of synovial joints (the cricoarytenoid joint and the cricothyroid joint) and some fibrous joints.

The synovial joints of larynx are:

• The cricoarytenoid joint is a diarthrodial (synovial) joint formed between the articular facet on the superior surface of the cricoid cartilage lamina and the base of the arytenoid cartilage. The cricoid facet is typically convex in the anteroposterior direction, while the arytenoid facet is concave, though significant intra- and inter-individual morphological variation exists. The joint is enclosed by a connective-elastic articular capsule that bounds a synovial cavity containing synovial folds a short medial fold and longer lateral folds as well as deep peripheral blind recesses, all indicative of great articular mobility. The capsule is strengthened by the posterior cricoarytenoid ligament, a flattened band of fibers on the medial aspect. Additional ligaments described include the anterior and posterior capsular ligaments, which contribute to joint stability.

• The cricothyroid joint (CTJ) is a synovial joint formed between the inferior cornu (horn) of the thyroid cartilage and the lateral facet of the cricoid cartilage. It is supported by two ligaments the lateral and posterior ceratocricoid ligaments and an articular capsule.