Cartilage
Cricoid cartilage
The complete cartilage ring below the vocal folds
High-yield
Its inferior border marks the larynx-to-trachea and pharynx-to-esophagus transitions, conventionally near C6 in an adult. Position changes with age, posture and swallowing.
Overview
The cricoid forms the lower framework of the larynx. A low anterior arch joins a much taller posterior lamina, making a complete ring around the airway. It supports the arytenoids above, articulates with the thyroid cartilage laterally and connects to the first tracheal ring below.
Reference facts
- Cartilage type
- Single hyaline cartilage forming a complete airway ring, unlike the open posterior ends of the usual tracheal cartilages.
- Key landmarks
- Anterior arch and posterior lamina, with facets for the arytenoids and inferior thyroid horns. The median cricothyroid ligament attaches above the arch.
- Articulations
- Paired cricoarytenoid joints above the lamina and paired cricothyroid joints with the inferior horns of the thyroid cartilage.
- Ossification
- Calcification and ossification increase variably during adulthood; there is no dependable onset restricted to middle age.
Clinical correlation
The relatively firm cricoid ring limits expansion of the subglottic airway, where swelling or scarring can impair airflow. It is not universally the narrowest point of a child's airway: imaging and bronchoscopic studies often find a smaller opening at or immediately below the vocal folds.
Frequently asked questions
What type of cartilage is the cricoid cartilage?
Single hyaline cartilage forming a complete airway ring, unlike the open posterior ends of the usual tracheal cartilages.
What does the cricoid cartilage articulate with?
Paired cricoarytenoid joints above the lamina and paired cricothyroid joints with the inferior horns of the thyroid cartilage.
What are the key landmarks of the cricoid cartilage?
Anterior arch and posterior lamina, with facets for the arytenoids and inferior thyroid horns. The median cricothyroid ligament attaches above the arch.
Does the cricoid cartilage ossify?
Calcification and ossification increase variably during adulthood; there is no dependable onset restricted to middle age.