Surgical Anatomy of the Neck

This chapter describes in a broad yet systematic manner the relevant surgical anatomy arrangement of the viscera, muscles, nerves, and major blood vessels in the neck. It defines the anatomical relationships of these structures to each other and to the various fascial layers in the neck. It also defines the boundaries, contents, and clinical significance of the different anatomical triangles of the neck. From a surgical perspective, the neck is usually divided into two triangles—the “anterior triangle” (consists of three and half triangles) and the posterior triangle (consists of two triangles). The sternocleidomastoid muscle is the key to understanding both of these triangles. In addition, this chapter describes the surgical levels of the neck, and the anatomical regions of the central neck, which extends from the “symphysis menti” above to the “suprasternal notch” below. It, therefore, includes the following regions: the submental (suprahyoid) region, hyoid bone region, laryngeal/pharyngeal region, tracheal region, and the suprasternal space of Burns. Mastery of such anatomical detail is an essential requisite for the accurate diagnosis of midline neck swellings and for the safety and precision in all neck operations, thereby minimizing damage to the many structures contained in such a small area.