Transverse Arytenoid Muscle, Posterior View

Description

Seen from posterior, the paired arytenoid cartilages sit superior to the cricoid cartilage, and the transverse arytenoid muscle (musculus arytenoideus transversus) spans horizontally between them as a single, flat band crossing the interarytenoid interval. Superiorly, the muscular ridge approaches the posterior aspect of the supraglottis, with the epiglottic base and aryepiglottic folds implied at the upper margin. Laterally, fibers blend toward the oblique arytenoid muscles and the posterior cricoarytenoid muscles as they descend to the posterior lamina of the cricoid. Cartilaginous contours of the thyroid cartilage frame the laryngeal inlet more anterosuperiorly, largely beyond the direct posterior plane. Functionally, the transverse arytenoid adducts the arytenoid cartilages, closing the posterior part of the rima glottidis and supporting efficient phonation and airway protection during swallowing. This posterior perspective matters when teaching why unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy often leaves a persistent posterior glottic gap, since the interarytenoid complex contributes to midline closure and compensatory hyperadduction patterns. Surgeons also reference the interarytenoid region during posterior glottic stenosis assessment and interarytenoid scar management after prolonged intubation. Small muscle, big consequences. Use this plate in gross anatomy and head and neck courses to contrast posterior cricoarytenoid abduction with interarytenoid adduction, or in otolaryngology teaching materials on laryngoscopy findings, dysphonia workup, and aspiration risk. It also fits voice and swallowing clinic handouts that explain glottic closure mechanics without oversimplifying the laryngeal cartilages and intrinsic musculature. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.