What Exactly are “False Vocal Folds?”

Otolaryngologist, Dr. Curt Stock answers this question in a few short and simple sentences: 

I have been asked about the function of the false vocal folds. 

These folds lie superiorly to the true vocal folds.

They consist of a vestibular ligament covered by a mucous membrane.

Their primary function is to protect the larynx.

They can compress medially to prevent food and liquid from reaching the true vocal folds.

They are also used in extreme sounds to produce a rough gravelly soundas produced by Louie Armstrong, known as false fold phonation. 

 

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