Functional anatomy of the larynx.

The larynx should be thought of as a sphincteric valve mechanism in the neck. It is composed of a relatively rigid skeleton and an inner lining, which passively is displayed as a series of elastic folds. These folds are anchored superiorly to the skull base and inferiorly to the trachea. Active folding and unfolding are accomplished by external and internal muscle activity to meet the various functional demands placed upon the larynx.