Windpipe
The trachea begins directly at the lower edge of the larynx. This consists of cartilaginous rings (cartilage clips), which are connected by ligaments. On the inside there is a surface which contains small cilia and mucus-producing goblet cells. Through the trachea, the inhaled air reaches the bronchi and from there the lungs.
Oesophagus
Behind the trachea lies the esophagus, which is a muscular tube that emerges from the throat.When swallowed, the chewed food glides laterally past the larynx and enters the oesophagus, from where it is transported into the stomach by undulating muscle movements.
Thyroid gland
As already mentioned, the thyroid gland lies directly in front of the larynx. More precisely, in front of the thyroid cartilage, which gave it its name. It is a gland consisting of two lobes and a connecting piece (isthmus).
This gland consists of different types of cells that produce different hormones. The actual thyroid cells produce the thyroid hormone thyroxine. There are also the so-called C-cells, which produce calcitonin. This is a hormone that also regulates the calcium and phosphate balance. Due to the tight anatomical position in the neck, an enlargement of the thyroid gland can lead to constriction of the windpipe or the cervical vessels, which can have serious complications.
Parathyroid gland
Directly beside, as well as somewhat behind the thyroid gland lain, approximately two parathyroid glands are to both sides in each case. These are somewhat lenticular in size and are also called epithelial corpuscles. In some people, only three or up to five parathyroid glands can be found.
The task of the parathyroid glands is to produce parathyroid hormone. This hormone also plays an important role in the regulation of the calcium and phosphate balance.
