Cuneiform Cartilage Within a Cross Section of the Larynx, Lateral View

Description

Seen in lateral profile within a laryngeal cross section, the cuneiform cartilage (cartilago cuneiformis, Wrisberg) appears as a small, elongated nodule embedded in the aryepiglottic fold, superior to the arytenoid region and lateral to the laryngeal inlet. Superiorly, the epiglottis rises behind the tongue base, while the thyroid cartilage forms the dominant anterior wall and the cricoid cartilage provides the inferior ring-like support. Muscle fibers and mucosa surround these cartilaginous landmarks, framing the supraglottic airway as it continues inferiorly toward the level of the vocal folds. Cuneiform cartilages matter because they are palpable, small stabilizers of the aryepiglottic folds, shaping the rim of the aditus laryngis and stiffening soft tissue that otherwise collapses during negative inspiratory pressure. Endoscopists often describe “cuneiform tubercles” when assessing supraglottic anatomy, and asymmetric prominence can be mistaken for a mucosal mass or edema in laryngoscopy, especially in male larynges with bulkier surrounding soft tissue. This view also clarifies the relationship of the cuneiform to the epiglottis and arytenoid complex, a key orientation point when teaching the supraglottis and differentiating supraglottic from glottic pathology. Ideal for otolaryngology and speech-language pathology teaching sets, this illustration supports lectures on airway protection, supraglottic collapse (including laryngomalacia concepts), and endoscopic anatomy of the aryepiglottic fold, and it also fits surgical atlases discussing supraglottic approaches and landmarks for transoral procedures. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.