Cervical fasciae

Superficial cervical fascia is a thin layer of subcutaneous connective tissue that lies between the dermis of the skin and the deep cervical fascia.

It contains the platysma, cutaneous nerves, blood, and lymphatic vessels.

It also contains a varying amount of fat, which is its distinguishing characteristic.

It is considered by some to be a part of the panniculus adiposus, and not true fascia.

• -------------------

DEEP CERVICAL FASCIA

The deep cervical fascia (or fascia colli in older texts) lies under cover of the platysma, and invests the muscles of the neck; it also forms sheaths for the carotid vessels, and for the structures situated in front of the vertebral column. Its attachment to the hyoid bone prevents the formation of a dewlap.

The investing portion of the fascia is attached behind to the ligamentum nuchæ and to the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra.

The alar fascia is a portion of the deep cervical fascia.

• ------------------

PREVERTEBRAL FASCIA

The prevertebral fascia (or prevertebral layer of cervical fascia) is a fascia in the neck.

Variations

In some literature, the prevertebral fascia also includes the other fascial layers extending around the vertebral column and enclosing all muscles laterally and posteriorly to it.

However, in this article, it is assumed to be as marked in the corresponding picture.

Location

The prevertebral fascia extends medially behind the carotid vessels, where it assists in forming their sheath, and passes in front of the prevertebral muscles.