Microcomputed Tomography Visualization of the Cricoarytenoid Joint Cavity in Cadavers

Objectives To visualize the cricoarytenoid joint (CAJ) cavity of the human cadaver and to correlate its appearance to the CAJ capsule. Study Design Prospective. Methods A total of 26 cadavers were used for microcomputed tomography arthrography, histology, and epoxy sheet plastination examinations. Results (1) The dimension of the CAJ cavity was much larger than the articular surfaces; (2) The posterior capsule of the CAJ was significantly strengthened, contained rich elastin fibers, and shared a common attachment with the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle; (3) The arytenoid cartilage was distanced from the cricoid cartilage at the superomedial aspect of the CAJ. Conclusions This study demonstrates that the posterior fibrous capsule is the primary passive stabilizer of the CAJ and suggests that in addition to the gliding, rucking, and rotation, a visor-like jumping of the arytenoid cartilage on the cricoid cartilage may provide further adjustments in motions of the vocal fold. The finding of this study has implications for the biomechanics of the CAJ motion; the differential diagnosis of CAJ disorders, such as CAJ dislocation and subluxation; and surgical correction of the CAJ dysfunction.