Picture of normal vocal cords: closed and open

Vocal cords, also called vocal folds, are ligaments that stretch across the larynx and are covered by mucous membranes. The larynx is in the throat just above the windpipe. When air passes over closed vocal cords, they vibrate and make sounds.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerDonald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
Last RevisedDecember 28, 2010

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