Aryepiglottic Fold

The aryepiglottic fold is a mucous membrane fold in the throat that stretches between the sides of the larynx (voice box) and the apex (top) of the epiglottis, which helps cover the windpipe during swallowing. It forms a kind of collar around the entrance to the larynx, guiding food and air appropriately. The fold contains muscles and tissue that assist in closing the airway during swallowing and protect the airway from food or liquid entering the lungs. Overall, it plays a critical role in swallowing safety and voice production.