Diagram of the Glottis As Seen from above Using a Laryngoscope or Fiberoptic Bronchoscope

(From Jaeger JM. Blank RS. Essential anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system and pulmonary circulation. In: Slinger P, ed. Principles and Practice of Anesthesia for Thoracic Surgery. New York, NY: Springer; 2011:51-69, with permission.)

Note the triangular-shaped glottic introitus with its narrowest aspect at the anterior commissure. Passage of bronchoscopes, endotracheal tubes, and especially, double-lumen tubes should be directed posteriorly where the vocal cords will spread the widest. Note that the vocal process of the arytenoid cartilage pivots on a small point and can be traumatized and displaced with rough handling.