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Home › Body Atlas › Muscles › Thyroarytenoid Detail
Muscle Neck

Thyroarytenoid Detail

musculus thyroarytenoideus detail

The thyroarytenoid contains the vocalis (thyrovocalis) as its medial portion. The muscle that forms the body of the vocal fold. The lateral portion (thyromuscularis) adducts and stabilises the arytenoid. Botulinum injection of the thyroarytenoid is the primary treatment for adductor spasmodic dysphonia.

An expanded entry for Thyroarytenoid.

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

OriginInner surface of the thyroid cartilage angle, lower half
InsertionMuscular process of the arytenoid cartilage and vocal process
Nerve SupplyRecurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN, branch of CN X)
Blood SupplyLaryngeal branch of inferior thyroid artery
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions
  • Adducts and shortens the vocal folds, the primary vocal fold closer
  • The thyrovocalis portion forms the body of the vocal fold

It shortens and relaxes the vocal cords to lower pitch and helps close the glottis during swallowing.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Thyroarytenoid botulinum injection for adductor spasmodic dysphonia produces 3-4 months of relief from the strained, strangled voice characteristic of this condition. The injection is guided by EMG through the cricothyroid membrane. RLN injury during thyroidectomy denervates the thyroarytenoid, producing vocal fold paralysis.

Palpation

Not externally palpable, assessed by laryngoscopy showing vocal fold motion and botulinum response.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Thyroarytenoid Botulinum for Adductor Spasmodic Dysphonia

EMG-guided thyroarytenoid botulinum injection producing 3-4 months of improved voice quality in adductor spasmodic dysphonia.

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