Abductor of the larynx is:
**Core Concept**
The larynx has several muscles involved in its movement and function, including those responsible for abduction (moving away from the midline), adduction (moving towards the midline), and other functions like vocal cord tension and pitch modulation. The correct answer will be a muscle that specifically facilitates the abduction of the larynx.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The crico-arytenoideus posterior muscle is responsible for the abduction of the vocal folds. This action is crucial for increasing the size of the laryngeal inlet and facilitating the passage of air during inspiration. The muscle achieves this by pulling the arytenoid cartilages laterally, thus moving the vocal folds apart. This movement is essential for maintaining a patent airway during respiration.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The crico-arytenoideus posterior is indeed the correct answer, so this option should be skipped.
**Option B:** The crico-arytenoideus lateralis muscle primarily assists in the opening of the glottis by rotating the arytenoid cartilages, but it is not responsible for the abduction of the larynx.
**Option C:** The arytenoideus transversus muscle helps in adduction of the vocal folds by pulling the arytenoid cartilages medially.
**Option D:** The vocalis muscle is involved in the adjustment of vocal cord tension and pitch, but it does not play a role in the abduction of the larynx.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember that the crico-arytenoideus posterior muscle is crucial for maintaining a patent airway during inspiration. Its dysfunction can lead to respiratory complications, such as stridor or difficulty breathing.
**β Correct Answer: A. Crico-arytenoideus posterior**