The dissection of the larynx is approached posteriorly after opening the pharynx.

Basic concepts:
You may wish to review the basic concepts for the head and neck at this time. The link opens a new window which you will need to close to return to this page.

Specific Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize that the soft structures are related to bony and cartilaginous structures (e.g., the pharynx ends and the esophagus begins at about the level of the cricoid cartilage which is at vertebral level C6).
2. Demonstrate the branches of the external carotid and their distributions.
3. List the parts of the digestive and respiratory tracts in this region.
4. Describe the components and distribution of each cranial nerve.
5. List each of the foramina in the skull and what traverses each.
6. Identify anatomic structures in radiographic studies including X-ray, CT scans and MRI films.

Difficult parts of the dissection:

1. This dissection is not difficult. Remember again to reconstruct the parts then find and follow structures that you had dissected previously (e.g., internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve.
2. The recurrent laryngeal can best be located in the groove between the esophagus and trachea. Find it and follow it into the larynx where it changes its name to inferior laryngeal.