What is the submandibular region and why is it clinically important?

The submandibular region is an anatomical area beneath the mandible, extending to the hyoid bone. It includes superficial triangles and deep structures like glands and muscles. It's clinically significant due to common swellings from infections such as Ludwig's angina or issues with the submandibular gland.

What are the key nerves in the submandibular region and their functions?

Key nerves include the lingual nerve (sensory to the anterior tongue and gum, carrying taste), hypoglossal nerve (motor to tongue muscles), and glossopharyngeal nerve (supplies stylopharyngeus and conveys posterior tongue sensations).

Which muscles are found in the submandibular region and what do they do?

Muscles in the submandibular region include suprahyoid muscles like digastric and mylohyoid, and extrinsic tongue muscles such as hyoglossus. They assist in functions like deglutition, tongue positioning, mandibular depression, and floor of mouth elevation.

What blood vessels supply the submandibular region?

Major arteries are the facial artery (supplies the submandibular gland and curves to the face) and the lingual artery (deep to hyoglossus, supplies the tongue). Veins include lingual veins that drain into the internal jugular vein.

What are common clinical issues associated with the submandibular region?

Common issues include Ludwig's angina (inflammatory edema in the floor of the mouth), lingual nerve damage (affecting tongue sensation), and marginal mandibular nerve injury (causing asymmetrical lip movement).

What is the role of the hyoglossus muscle in the submandibular region?

The hyoglossus muscle is a key landmark for surgical navigation in the deep structures. It is part of the third muscular plane and helps with tongue positioning and movement.

Submandibular Region – Digastric Triangle Anatomy