The laryngeal mask is typically placed over which anatomical structure?

The laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is designed to be positioned over the laryngeal inlet, which area includes the pyriform fossa. The pyriform fossa is a recess found on each side of the larynx, adjacent to the epiglottis, and it serves as an anatomical landmark during the placement of the LMA. When correctly placed, the cuff of the LMA sits in the hypopharynx, sealing around the laryngeal opening, allowing for ventilation without interfering with the vocal cords.

The LMA is specifically designed to provide a more effective airway management tool compared to other devices while minimizing trauma to the airway and providing a good seal for artificial ventilation. A proper understanding of the anatomy involved, particularly the position relative to the pyriform fossa, is crucial for successful placement and effective ventilation management in pediatric patients.

The other anatomical structures listed do not serve as appropriate landing zones for a laryngeal mask: the vocal cords are protected by the structures surrounding the inlet, while the cricoid cartilage is located below the laryngeal inlet and contributes to the structural integrity of the airway but is not directly related to LMA placement. The epiglottis, while