The Neck

Overview

The neck forms a vital connection between the head and thorax, housing essential neurovascular, respiratory and digestive structures. This section explores the layered organisation of the cervical region and the complex interplay of muscles, vessels and fascia that define it.

Key Structures

Articles cover the cervical vertebrae and muscles, fascial planes, major blood vessels, lymphatics and cranial nerves passing through the neck. The thyroid and parathyroid glands, larynx and pharynx are described in depth, with illustrations that clarify three-dimensional relationships for clinical application.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

A detailed understanding of neck anatomy underpins safe airway management, surgical procedures and neurological examination. The content connects structure to function, supporting learners in interpreting cross-sectional imaging and identifying clinical landmarks with confidence.

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Areas

  • The Posterior Triangle of the Neck
  • The Anterior Triangle of the Neck

Bones

  • The Hyoid Bone
  • The Cervical Spine

Viscera

  • The Larynx
  • Laryngeal Ligaments and Folds
  • +6 more

Muscles

  • The Scalene Muscles
  • The Suboccipital Muscles
  • +2 more

Nerves

  • The Phrenic Nerve
  • The Cervical Plexus

Blood Vessels & Lymphatics

  • External Carotid Artery & Branches
  • Internal Carotid Artery
  • +8 more

Other

  • Fascial Layers of the Neck

Popular

Illustration of the second layer of the plantar muscles, highlighting the quadratus plantae and lumbricals in the human foot.
Encyclopaedia

Quadratus Plantae

by Sanya Trikha

Diagram showing the anatomical course of the femoral nerve and its two cutaneous branches: anterior cutaneous fibers and saphenous nerve.
Encyclopaedia

Saphenous Nerve

by Sharanya Bhaskaran

Illustration of the major branches of the lingual artery.
Encyclopaedia

Lingual Artery

by Janani Lambotharan