Hyoid Apparatus - Anatomy & Physiology

Introduction

The hyoid apparatus holds the larynx in place and supports the pharynx and tongue from the skull. It is made up of 5 different bones, which vary in length and size depending on the species.

Hyoid Apparatus in situ - Copyright Nottingham

Structure and Function

It is attached to the temporal region of the skull by a synchondrosis joint. It is palpable through the pharynx and is visible when the pharynx is viewed through the mouth. The basihyoid is palpable within the intermandibular space.

The sternohyoid muscle pulls the hyoid caudally and the geniohyoid muscle pulls the hyoid rostrally.

Hyoid Apparatus Drawing - Copyright nabrown

The hyoid bones

1. Basihyoid - Unpaired bone.

2. Stylohyoid - Articulates with base of skull at the petrus temporal. A paired bone.

3. Epihyoid - A paired bone.

4. Keratohyoid - A paired bone.

5. Thyrohyoid - Articulates with the thyroid cartilage of the larynx. A paired bone.

Species Differences

Canine hyoid apparatus - Copyright Nottingham

Carnivores

Stylohyoid bones are not palpable.

Equine

Epihyoid is small, the lingual process is present and they have a well developed stylohyoid muscle.

Ruminants

Lingual process is present.

Porcine

Lingual process is present.

Hyoid Apparatus - Anatomy & Physiology Learning Resources
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