Ligament
Quadrangular membrane
Fibroelastic support above the vocal folds
High-yield
The vestibular ligament belongs to the false vocal fold. It lies above the true vocal ligament, which is continuous with the conus elasticus.
Overview
A quadrangular membrane lies beneath the lining on each side of the upper larynx. It spans from the epiglottic margin toward the arytenoid region. Its inferior edge becomes the vestibular ligament, while its superior edge supports the aryepiglottic fold.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- Epiglottic lateral margin anteriorly to the arytenoid and adjoining corniculate region posteriorly.
- Function
- Supports the vestibular wall; the lower margin forms the vestibular ligament and the upper margin supports the aryepiglottic fold.
- Clinical point
- Its fibroelastic tissue influences local tumor spread, but it is not an absolute barrier and does not alone define supraglottic cancer staging.
Clinical correlation
The laryngeal saccule extends upward beside the vestibular fold. An air-filled enlargement, a laryngocele, may remain inside the larynx or extend into the neck; a visible swelling is therefore not present in every case.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the quadrangular membrane attach?
The quadrangular membrane attaches epiglottic lateral margin anteriorly to the arytenoid and adjoining corniculate region posteriorly.
What does the quadrangular membrane do?
Supports the vestibular wall; the lower margin forms the vestibular ligament and the upper margin supports the aryepiglottic fold.
Why does the quadrangular membrane matter clinically?
Its fibroelastic tissue influences local tumor spread, but it is not an absolute barrier and does not alone define supraglottic cancer staging.