Anterior triangle of the neck

Anterior triangle of the neck is a region of the neck that is demarcated by the anatomical structures of the neck. It is one of the two major divisions of the neck area, the other being the posterior triangle of the neck.

Anatomy

The anterior triangle of the neck is bordered by the sternocleidomastoid muscle laterally, the midline of the neck medially, and the inferior border of the mandible superiorly. The hyoid bone is a significant structure within this triangle, as it serves as an attachment point for several muscles and ligaments.

Subdivisions

The anterior triangle of the neck is further subdivided into four smaller triangles:

• The submental triangle is bounded by the hyoid bone, the anterior belly of the digastric muscle, and the midline of the neck.
• The submandibular triangle (or digastric triangle) is bounded by the anterior and posterior bellies of the digastric muscle and the inferior border of the mandible.
• The carotid triangle is bounded by the sternocleidomastoid muscle, the omohyoid muscle, and the anterior belly of the digastric muscle.
• The muscular triangle is bounded by the sternocleidomastoid muscle, the superior belly of the omohyoid muscle, and the midline of the neck.

Clinical significance

The anterior triangle of the neck is of clinical importance as it contains several vital structures, including the carotid artery, jugular vein, and several cranial nerves. Conditions such as carotid artery stenosis, carotidynia, and thyroid disorders can affect this region.

See also

• Anatomy of the human neck
• Triangles of the neck
• Posterior triangle of the neck