Posterior triangle of the neck

Posterior triangle of the neck is an anatomical region located in the neck. It is one of the four major triangles of the neck and is distinguished by its boundaries and contents.

Boundaries

The posterior triangle of the neck is defined by three key anatomical structures:

• Anteriorly: The posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle
• Posteriorly: The anterior border of the trapezius muscle
• Inferiorly: The middle third of the clavicle

The apex of the triangle is at the occipital bone, where the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles meet.

Contents

The posterior triangle of the neck contains several important structures, including:

• The spinal accessory nerve
• The cervical plexus
• The brachial plexus
• The subclavian artery
• The subclavian vein
• The lymph nodes of the neck

Clinical significance

Due to the numerous vital structures contained within the posterior triangle of the neck, it is a key area of focus in medical examinations and surgical procedures. Conditions such as cervical lymphadenopathy, torticollis, and brachial plexus injuries can all present with symptoms in this region.

See also

• Anterior triangle of the neck
• Sternocleidomastoid muscle
• Trapezius muscle
• Clavicle