Library · Physiology
Tracheal function
Make it clearer
Cartilage rings help keep the trachea from collapsing during exhalation. They act as supports for a flexible airway.
The trachea also helps clean inhaled air: mucus traps dust and other debris, and cilia move that material away from the lungs.
In brief
The cartilage rings help keep the trachea from collapsing during exhalation.
The cartilage rings act as supports for a flexible airway.
The trachea also helps clean inhaled air: mucus traps particles, and ciliary movement carries them away from the lungs.
Sources (1)
- NCBI Bookshelf / StatPearlsAnatomy, Thorax, Tracheobronchial Tree
This page explains the topic in general terms; it does not tell anyone what treatment to follow.
Updated