Thyroid cartilage — Free Anatomy Illustration

Anatomy

Thyroid cartilage

Large shield-shaped thyroid cartilage of the larynx, shown as smooth hyaline cartilage in pale bluish-white, blue-gray, or ivory tones. It is formed by two broad quadrilateral laminae that meet anteriorly in the midline to create a distinct laryngeal prominence or anterior ridge, often with a superior thyroid notch along the upper border. The superior borders are gently curved, the lateral surfaces are broad and smooth, and the outer surface may show a subtle oblique line. Along the posterior borders are paired cornua, with elongated superior horns projecting upward and inferior horns projecting downward, giving the cartilage an overall curved shield-like form with defined superior and inferior borders.

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