Which of the following doesn’t elevate larynx?
**Core Concept**
The movement of the larynx is influenced by various muscles that are innervated by the cranial nerves. The muscles involved in laryngeal elevation are primarily responsible for swallowing and vocal cord protection.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The sterno-hyoid muscle is a strap muscle of the neck that originates from the superior border of the sternum and inserts into the hyoid bone. It primarily functions to depress and retract the hyoid bone, rather than elevating the larynx. The sterno-hyoid muscle is innervated by the ansa cervicalis, a branch of the cervical plexus. In contrast, the thyrohyoid muscle originates from the greater horn of the hyoid bone and inserts into the oblique line of the thyroid cartilage. It elevates the larynx and is innervated by the first cervical nerve. The mylohyoid muscle also contributes to laryngeal elevation by pulling the hyoid bone upward, thereby elevating the larynx.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** The thyrohyoid muscle is a primary elevator of the larynx and is responsible for the upward movement of the epiglottis during swallowing. This muscle is indeed involved in laryngeal elevation.
**Option C:** The mylohyoid muscle plays a crucial role in elevating the hyoid bone and, consequently, the larynx during swallowing. This muscle is also involved in laryngeal elevation.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because there is a muscle among the choices that doesn't elevate the larynx.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In clinical practice, it's essential to recognize the muscles that contribute to laryngeal elevation during swallowing. The thyrohyoid and mylohyoid muscles work in conjunction to elevate the larynx and prevent aspiration. The sterno-hyoid muscle, on the other hand, is primarily involved in hyoid bone depression and retraction.
**β Correct Answer: A. Sternohyoid**