Vessels of the larynx

The larynx is supplied by the superior (branch of external carotid artery) and inferior thyroid arteries (branch of thyrocervical trunk of the subclavian artery respectively) above and below the vocal cords. Venous drainage occurs in the correspondingly named veins (ultimately draining into the brachiocephalic vein). Lymphatic drainage goes to the deep cervical lymph nodes.

Nerves of the larynx

Sensation to the mucous membrane above and at the vocal folds is mediated by the internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve, while sensation below is mediated by the recurrent laryngeal nerve, all branches of the vagus nerve (CN X).

All the intrinsic muscles of the larynx are supplied by the recurrent laryngeal nerve, except cricothyroid (the only intrinsic muscle on the external surface of the larynx) which is supplied by the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve.