Growth of the Human Prepubertal and Pubertal Larynx

Abstract

Prepubertal, pubertal, and adult measurements of human larynges were used to describe growth of the larynx from prepuberty to adulthood. Linear and weight measurements made of 10 Caucasian male and 10 Caucasian female prepubertal and pubertal cadaveric larynges were compared to adult measurement data obtained from another study on 20 male and 20 female larynges of adults, aged 37-70. In both studies measurements and experimental protocols were similar, allowing direct comparisons to be made between samples. Results highlight specific quantitative characteristics and trends in circumpubertal growth of the laryngeal cartilages and the vocal folds for each sex and with respect to sex differences. The results are discussed with respect to the literature on postnatal laryngeal development and to published research on adolescent voice change.

Intubation depth markings allow an improved positioning of endotracheal tubes in children

“…This allows positioning of the upper border of the cuff more distally and the design of adequate intubation depth markings guaranteeing a cuff-free tube within the larynx. 7,35,36 It may be argued that the lack of a Murphy eye carries the risk for inadequate exhalation and barotrauma if the tube tip is placed inadvertently against the trachea mucosa or can lead to unilateral ventilation, if the tube tip is placed near the tracheal carina. In the author's experience, depth markings provide more protection against endobronchial intubation and unilateral ventilation respectively, and cuffed tubes are at lower risk to have the tube bevel face against the tracheal mucosa, since the cuff stabilizes the tube shaft within the trachea.…”

Child Voice and Noise: A Pilot Study of Noise in Day Cares and the Effects on 10 Children's Voice Quality According to Perceptual Evaluation

“…[11] and [12] However, compared to adults, children's larynxes are not just scaled-down versions. 13 The differences also include structure. During puberty, the vocal fold growth involves a differentiation into a layered structure.…”

A Study of Morphometry of Adult Human Larynx and Its Importance in Clinical Applications

“…[ Table 5 &6] The morphological data showed no significant asymmetry between right and left side as p value is >0.05. Most of the work done is on laryngeal cartilages [6][7][8][9][10][12][13][14]. There is slight variation with other similar work, but statistically not significant.…”

“…This study is to invoke interest in condition post-intubation stenosis, subglottic stenosis of lower respiratory tract [5,6]. They have been studies done to describe preadolescent and adolescent laryngeal growth quantitatively from the data obtained from cadaveric human larynges [7]. Hirano investigated in their work regarding Asymmetry of laryngeal framework in adults more directly preponderance in asymmetry than children [8].…”