Hyoepiglottic Ligament

ligamentum hyoepiglotticum

The hyoepiglottic ligament is an elastic membrane connecting the anterior surface of the epiglottis to the upper border of the hyoid body, with some fibres extending laterally toward the greater horns. It maintains the epiglottis in its upright position during rest and contributes to the pre-epiglottic space anatomy.

Region: Neck

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The hyoepiglottic ligament forms the anterior wall of the pre-epiglottic space, a potential route of supraglottic cancer spread that is assessed on CT and MRI. Surgical approaches to the epiglottis via vallecula or directly divide this ligament. In supraglottic laryngectomy, the pre-epiglottic space is cleared and the hyoepiglottic ligament is divided as part of the resection. Epiglottitis may produce hyoepiglottic ligament thickening visible on lateral neck X-ray as a widened epiglottis.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Pre-Epiglottic Space Cancer Invasion

Supraglottic cancer penetrating the hyoepiglottic ligament into the pre-epiglottic space, a staging criterion that influences surgical resectability and the choice between partial and total laryngectomy.