The Cricoid Cartilage defines the bottom portion of the structure of the Larynx and is essentially the top-most ring of the Trachea. It connects to the bottom of the Thyroid Cartilage by the Median Cricothyroid ligament and the Cricothyroid Joints. It resembles the Trachea cartilages that continue below it with the exception that it is a complete ring and the Tracheal cartilages are C-shaped. This is to allow flexibility for food to more easily pass behind in the Esophagus. The Cricoid Cartilage is a key component of the Laryngeal structure providing attachments for the muscles and ligaments that coordinate Glottal function.
