TYK116
What is the level of the infant’s larynx?
a) C2-3
b) C3-4
c) C4-5
d) C5-6
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What is the level of the infant’s larynx?
a) C2-3
b) C3-4
c) C4-5
d) C5-6
Answer b.
In an infant, the larynx is located at the level of C3-4, as compared to an adult’s larynx, which is at the level of C4-5. This is clinically significant as it creates a more acute angle between the oral, laryngeal and tracheal axes, making laryngoscopy more difficult. Additionally, the more cephalad location of the larynx makes the infant more prone to oropharyngeal obstruction.