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Epiglottic vallecula

The epiglottic vallecula is a paired mucosal depression located between the base of the tongue and the anterior surface of the epiglottis. It plays an essential role in directing food and liquids during swallowing, helping prevent aspiration into the airway. The vallecula serves as an important anatomical landmark in endoscopy and radiological imaging, and it can be involved in various pathological processes such as infections, cysts, or tumors.

Anatomy of the Epiglottic Vallecula

  • The valleculae are two pits or recesses, right and left, separated by the median glossoepiglottic fold.

  • Located posterior to the tongue base and anterior to the epiglottis.

  • Bounded laterally by the lateral glossoepiglottic folds.

  • Lined by non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.

  • Acts as a reservoir during swallowing, temporarily holding saliva or food bolus.

Function of the Epiglottic Vallecula

  • Directs food and liquids away from the airway by guiding them toward the piriform sinuses during swallowing.

  • Provides a site for temporary pooling of secretions and food bolus before swallowing.

  • Serves as a key landmark during intubation, laryngoscopy, and surgical procedures.

MRI Appearance

T1-Weighted Imaging:

  • The vallecula appears as a low-signal-intensity (dark) 

T2-Weighted Imaging:

  • The vallecula appears as a low-signal-intensity (dark) 

CT Appearance

  • The vallecula is seen as a low-attenuation (dark) space anterior to the epiglottis and posterior to the tongue base.

MRI images

Epiglottic Vallecula MRI axial image