The only abductor muscle of the vocal cord is:
- A Posterior cricoarytenoid ✓
- B Lateral cricoarytenoid
- C Transverse arytenoid
- D Thyroarytenoid
Correct answer: A. Posterior cricoarytenoid
Explanation
The posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA) is the only abductor of the vocal cord. It rotates the arytenoid cartilage laterally, opening the glottis during inspiration. Bilateral PCA paralysis causes inspiratory stridor and may require emergency tracheostomy. The lateral cricoarytenoid and transverse/oblique arytenoids are adductors; the cricothyroid is a tensor.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.