Diagram of the Larynx from the Base of the Tongue to below the Thyroid Cartilage As Viewed from its Posterior Aspect

(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 relationship of the superior laryngeal, inferior laryngeal, and recurrent laryngeal nerves and the posterior aspect of the larynx, thyroid, and trachea. Tracheal and thyroid surgery places these nerves at risk.