cricoid cartilage
ring of hyaline cartilage on the first ring of trachea
The cricoid cartilage is a ring-shaped structure located in the lower part of the human larynx, or voice box. It is the only complete ring of cartilage in the respiratory system. The cricoid cartilage is named for its resemblance to a signet ring (“cricoid” comes from the Greek word “krikos,” meaning “ring”).
The cricoid cartilage is composed of hyaline cartilage and is thicker anteriorly and laterally than it is posteriorly. It is an important structure in maintaining the patency of the trachea, as it acts as a support for the tracheal rings and prevents the trachea from collapsing during inspiration. It also helps to protect the surrounding structures in the neck.
The cricoid cartilage is attached to the thyroid cartilage above it by the cricothyroid membrane. Below it, the cricoid cartilage joins with the first tracheal ring. The cricoid cartilage is an important landmark in the neck, as it is used as a point of reference during surgical procedures and in emergency situations such as endotracheal intubation.
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