Which laryngeal cartilage is the only one that is paired and located anterolaterally in the larynx?

Explanation

## Laryngeal Cartilages — Classification **Key Point:** The arytenoid cartilages are the only **paired** cartilages of the larynx. They are pyramidal in shape and sit on the posterosuperior border of the cricoid cartilage. ### Structural Features of Arytenoid Cartilages - **Number:** Paired (2) - **Location:** Posterosuperior aspect of the cricoid cartilage, one on each side - **Shape:** Pyramidal with three surfaces - **Articulation:** Articulates with the cricoid via the cricoarytenoid joint (a synovial joint allowing rotation and gliding) ### Comparison of Laryngeal Cartilages | Cartilage | Number | Location | Shape | Function | |-----------|--------|----------|-------|----------| | Thyroid | 1 (unpaired) | Anterolateral | Shield-like | Forms anterior laryngeal frame | | Cricoid | 1 (unpaired) | Inferior | Ring-like | Provides support; articulates with arytenoids | | Arytenoid | 2 (paired) | Posterosuperior | Pyramidal | Vocal cord attachment; abduction/adduction | | Epiglottis | 1 (unpaired) | Anterior | Leaf-like | Airway protection during swallowing | | Corniculate | 2 (paired) | Apex of arytenoid | Small nodules | Supports aryepiglottic fold | | Cuneiform | 2 (paired) | Aryepiglottic fold | Small rods | Reinforces aryepiglottic fold | **High-Yield:** The arytenoid cartilages are the only **paired** cartilages — this is a frequently tested distinguishing feature. Their mobility via the cricoarytenoid joint is essential for vocal cord abduction (inspiration) and adduction (phonation). **Clinical Pearl:** Damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve (which innervates the cricoarytenoid muscles) results in vocal cord paralysis, typically in the paramedian position, because the cricothyroid muscle (innervated by the superior laryngeal nerve) remains functional.