What are the three main layers of the deep cervical fascia?

The deep cervical fascia consists of three layers: investing layer, pretracheal fascia, and prevertebral fascia. These layers form compartments and sheaths that enclose muscles, glands, vessels, and neurovascular bundles in the neck.

What structures does the investing layer of deep cervical fascia enclose?

The investing layer encloses the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles, and it splits to surround the submandibular and parotid glands. It also forms spaces like the suprasternal and supraclavicular spaces, and acts as a pulley for the digastric and omohyoid muscles.

What is the clinical significance of the pretracheal fascia?

The pretracheal fascia allows the thyroid gland to move during swallowing due to its attachments, and it forms the false capsule of the thyroid. This facilitates friction-free movement and can influence conditions like goitre, which may compress the esophagus posteriorly.

How does the prevertebral fascia relate to infection spread in the neck?

The prevertebral fascia forms spaces such as the retropharyngeal space and prevertebral space, which can guide the spread of infections. For example, a retropharyngeal abscess can cause a bulge in the posterior pharyngeal wall, and pus from vertebral caries may spread to the mediastinum or axilla.

What structures are contained within the carotid sheath?

The carotid sheath encloses the common or internal carotid arteries, internal jugular vein, and vagus nerve. It extends from the base of the skull to the arch of the aorta, with the vagus nerve positioned between the artery and vein.

What is the role of the buccopharyngeal fascia?

The buccopharyngeal fascia is a thin, elastic layer that covers the pharyngeal constrictor muscles and buccinator. It forms the posterior wall of the retropharyngeal space and, along with the pharyngobasilar fascia, helps seal gaps in the muscular wall of the pharynx.

Deep Cervical Fascia – Layers & Carotid Sheath