The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of tissues that projects obliquely from the top of the larynx.
Its shape and position are supported by a band of elastic cartilage. A small ligament attaches the narrow end of the epiglottic cartilage to the back of the thyroid cartilage.
Lining the epiglottis and most of the inner surface of the larynx is a layer of respiratory mucosa.
During the swallowing process, skeletal muscles move the larynx upward, positioning the epiglottis flattens against the base of the tongue. As the larynx continues to move upward, the epiglottis against the undersurface of the tongue. The downward movement causes the epiglottis to cover the laryngeal opening, which blocks food particles from entering.
