Aryknorpel

Aryknorpel is a term used in Nordic medical terminology to refer to the arytenoid cartilage of the larynx. The word combines knorpel, meaning cartilage, with ary-, pointing to the arytenoid region. In standard anatomy, the aryknorpel describes a paired, small, pyramid-shaped cartilage that sits on the posterior aspect of the cricoid cartilage.

Anatomically, the aryknorpel pairs are located at the upper posterior border of the cricoid and form part of the posterior wall of the larynx. They articulate with the cricoid cartilage at the cricoarytenoid joints, allowing controlled rotation and gliding. The vocal folds attach to the vocal processes of the aryknorpel, and several intrinsic laryngeal muscles interact with these cartilages to modulate voice and airway protection.

Functionally, the aryknorpel provide crucial support for phonation. By changing the position and tension of the vocal folds through their joint movements and muscle attachments, they regulate pitch, volume, and vocal cord closure during swallowing. Their mobility enables rapid adjustments essential for speech and protection of the lower airway.

Development and variations are typical for cartilaginous structures in the larynx. Aryknorpel arise from mesenchymal tissue during embryogenesis and undergo endochondral ossification to varying degrees in adulthood, leading to individual differences in size and shape.

Clinical relevance is primarily related to disorders of the larynx. Trauma, dislocation of the arytenoid cartilage, inflammatory conditions, or degenerative changes can affect voice quality and airway function. Imaging and endoscopic examination are common methods to assess aryknorpel integrity in clinical practice.

See also: larynx, arytenoid cartilage, cricoarytenoid joint, phonation.