On an axial CT of the neck at the level of the true vocal cords, the cricothyroid joint is identified. The membrane extending upward from the superior border of the cricoid cartilage to the vocal process of the arytenoid and the thyroid cartilage is the:

• A Quadrangular membrane
• B Conus elasticus (cricovocal membrane) ✓
• C Cricotracheal ligament
• D Thyrohyoid membrane

Explanation

The conus elasticus (cricovocal membrane) arises from the cricoid cartilage and extends superiorly to attach to the vocal process of the arytenoid and the inner surface of the thyroid cartilage. Its free superior thickened edge forms the vocal ligament. The quadrangular membrane lies more superiorly and forms the vestibular ligament. The thyrohyoid membrane connects the thyroid cartilage to the hyoid bone.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.