Prevertebral fascia

Prevertebral fascia

The prevertebral fascia is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds and supports the structures in the neck and upper back region. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and integrity of the cervical spine.

Anatomy

The prevertebral fascia is located deep to the skin and superficial fascia, and it surrounds the muscles, blood vessels, and nerves in the neck and upper back. It extends from the base of the skull to the coccyx, covering the entire length of the vertebral column.

The fascia is composed of dense, fibrous connective tissue that forms a strong and flexible sheath around the structures it encloses. It consists of three layers: the anterior layer, the middle layer, and the posterior layer.

The anterior layer of the prevertebral fascia is located closest to the front of the neck. It covers the muscles of the anterior neck, including the longus colli and longus capitis muscles. This layer also surrounds the carotid sheath, which contains the common carotid artery, internal jugular vein, and vagus nerve.

The middle layer of the prevertebral fascia lies between the anterior and posterior layers. It covers the deep muscles of the neck, such as the scalene muscles and the deep cervical muscles. This layer also encloses the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that innervates the upper limb.

The posterior layer of the prevertebral fascia is located closest to the back of the neck. It covers the deep muscles of the back, including the erector spinae muscles and the transversospinalis muscles. This layer also surrounds the vertebral column and the spinal cord.

Function

The prevertebral fascia serves several important functions in the neck and upper back region. It provides support and protection to the structures it surrounds, helping to maintain their position and stability. It also acts as a barrier, preventing the spread of infection or inflammation from one area to another.

Additionally, the prevertebral fascia allows for the passage of blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels. It provides a pathway for these structures to travel through the neck and upper back, ensuring proper functioning and communication between different parts of the body.

Clinical Significance

In certain medical conditions, the prevertebral fascia can become inflamed or damaged, leading to pain and dysfunction. For example, cervical disc herniation can cause compression of the nerves within the prevertebral fascia, resulting in symptoms such as neck pain, arm pain, and weakness.

Surgical procedures involving the neck and upper back often require careful dissection and manipulation of the prevertebral fascia. Surgeons must be knowledgeable about the anatomy and function of this fascial layer to ensure successful outcomes and minimize complications.

See Also

• Cervical spine
• Fascia
• Neck muscles