<P> The larynx is innervated by branches of the vagus nerve on each side . Sensory innervation to the glottis and laryngeal vestibule is by the internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve . The external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve innervates the cricothyroid muscle . Motor innervation to all other muscles of the larynx and sensory innervation to the subglottis is by the recurrent laryngeal nerve . While the sensory input described above is (general) visceral sensation (diffuse, poorly localized), the vocal fold also receives general somatic sensory innervation (proprioceptive and touch) by the superior laryngeal nerve . </P> <P> Injury to the external laryngeal nerve causes weakened phonation because the vocal folds cannot be tightened . Injury to one of the recurrent laryngeal nerves produces hoarseness, if both are damaged the voice may or may not be preserved, but breathing becomes difficult . </P> <P> In adult humans, the larynx is found in the anterior neck at the level of the C3--C6 vertebrae . It connects the inferior part of the pharynx (hypopharynx) with the trachea . The laryngeal skeleton consists of six cartilages: three single (epiglottic, thyroid and cricoid) and three paired (arytenoid, corniculate, and cuneiform). The hyoid bone is not part of the larynx, though the larynx is suspended from the hyoid . The larynx extends vertically from the tip of the epiglottis to the inferior border of the cricoid cartilage . Its interior can be divided in supraglottis, glottis and subglottis . </P> <P> In newborn infants, the larynx is initially at the level of the C2--C3 vertebrae, and is further forward and higher relative to its position in the adult body . The larynx descends as the child grows . </P>

Where is the larynx located in the human body