Ligaments of epiglottis

The ligaments of the epiglottis are fibrous connective tissue structures that anchor the epiglottic cartilage to surrounding laryngeal and hyoid structures, maintaining its position and enabling its function during swallowing and respiration.

Thyroepiglottic Ligament: This ligament connects the lower, narrow end (petiolus) of the epiglottic cartilage to the inner surface of the thyroid cartilage, just below the thyroid notch. It serves as the primary inferior attachment of the epiglottis, securing it within the laryngeal framework.

Hyoepiglottic Ligament: This is a broad elastic membrane that extends from the anterior surface of the epiglottis to the upper border of the body of the hyoid bone. It connects the epiglottis to the hyoid bone and helps define the boundaries of the pre-epiglottic space. This ligament plays a role in the movement of the epiglottis during deglutition, as the hyoid bone elevates and draws the epiglottis forward.

Note: The lateral and median glossoepiglottic folds (mucosal folds with underlying connective tissue): Although not true ligaments in the strict anatomical sense, the median and lateral glossoepiglottic folds connect the base of the tongue to the anterior surface of the epiglottis. The median glossoepiglottic fold runs in the midline, while the two lateral folds border the valleculae on each side. These folds contain underlying connective tissue that functionally tethers the epiglottis to the tongue.