Hyoid Apparatus - Anatomy & Physiology

From WikiVet English
Jump to navigation Jump to search
BACK TO ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
BACK TO MUSCULOSKELETAL ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
BACK TO 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.

Structure and Function

  • Visible when the pharynx is viewed through the mouth
  • Basihyoid is palpable within the intermandibular space
  • Sternohyoid muscle pulls hyoid caudally
  • Geniohyoid muscle pulls hyoid rostrally
Hyoid Apparatus Drawing - Copyright nabrown

The hyoid bones

  • Basihyoid
    • Lingual process present in some species which protrudes into the roof of the tongue
  • Epihyoid
  • Keratohyoid
  • Thyrohyoid

Species Differences

Carnivores

  • Stylohyoid bones not palpable

Equine

  • Epihyoid small

Ruminants

  • Lingual process present

Porcine

  • Lingual process present