vocal cord/fold/shelf (Ferrein cords, true vocal cord)

Function

• control sound production
• serves as the main inspiratory sphincter of the larynx when they are tightly closed

Structure

The sharp-edged fold of mucous membrane overlying the vocal ligament.

• stretch along either wall of the larynx from the angle between the thyroid lamina to the vocal process of the arytenoid cartilage
• air passing through the glottis causes the vocal folds to vibrate, producing sound. The frequency of the vibrations & the pitch of the sound produced depends on the tension on the vocal cord. The pitch of the voice is regulated by moving the arytenoid cartilages

More general terms

• respiratory system structure

Additional terms

• vestibular/ventricular fold (false vocal cord, ventricular band of larynx)
• vocal cord dysfunction; inducible laryngeal obstruction
• vocal cord paralysis
• vocalis muscle

Component of

• larynx