Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which anatomical structure does the hyoid bone provide support for?

1. Neck muscles

2. Tongue

3. Esophagus

4. Trachea

The correct answer is: Tongue

The hyoid bone provides essential support for the tongue, making it the correct answer. This U-shaped bone is situated in the anterior neck and serves as an anchoring structure for the muscles associated with the tongue and the floor of the mouth. The hyoid bone does not articulate directly with any other bone, allowing for a certain degree of mobility, which is crucial for its role in facilitating tongue movements necessary for speech and swallowing. It is connected to the tongue by various muscles and ligaments, which aids in the complex actions of the tongue during these processes. While the hyoid bone does contribute to the overall structure of the neck and has indirect implications for the esophagus and trachea due to its position, its primary function lies in supporting the tongue and providing a surface for the attachment of several muscles. This specific involvement highlights the significance of the hyoid bone in functions related to the tongue, sanctioning it as the correct choice in this context.