Which surgical landmark defines the boundary between the supraglottis and glottis for staging laryngeal carcinoma?
- A A horizontal plane through the apex of the laryngeal ventricle ✓
- B The free edge of the epiglottis
- C The lower border of the cricoid cartilage
- D The level of the vocal processes of the arytenoids
Correct answer: A. A horizontal plane through the apex of the laryngeal ventricle
Explanation
The supraglottis–glottis boundary is defined as a horizontal plane through the apex (lateral angle) of the laryngeal ventricle. The glottis consists of the true vocal cords and the anterior and posterior commissures, extending 1 cm below the free edge of the vocal cords. Understanding this boundary is essential for staging glottic versus supraglottic carcinoma, which differ markedly in lymphatic drainage and prognosis.
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.