Which of the following lists the three components of laryngeal closure during swallowing?

• A. Epiglottis retroflexes; true vocal folds adduct; arytenoids move anteriorly and toward the midline
• B. False vocal folds adduct; epiglottis deflects laterally; arytenoids separate
• C. Laryngeal walls collapse; epiglottis tilts posteriorly; vocal cords loosen
• D. None of the above

Answer: (A)

During swallowing, the airway is protected by three coordinated actions that seal the laryngeal inlet. First, the epiglottis retroflexes, acting like a lid to cover the opening of the larynx. Second, the true vocal folds adduct, forming a tight glottal seal so material cannot pass through the vocal cords. Third, the arytenoid cartilages move medially and slightly anterior, bringing the posterior aspect of the larynx together and reinforcing the seal. When these movements occur together with laryngeal elevation and pharyngeal bolus propulsion, the airway is effectively closed to protect the trachea. The other options describe movements that would open or fail to seal the airway, so they don’t match how laryngeal closure is achieved.