anatomy of the neck

What is the platysma, and what is its primary function?

The platysma is a superficial neck muscle that tenses the skin, aids in facial expression, and helps depress the mandible.

What key structures are revealed after reflecting the platysma?

The thyroid gland, thyroid cartilage, superior thyroid artery, superior thyroid vein, inferior thyroid vein, and external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve.

What is the isthmus of the thyroid gland, and where is it located?

The isthmus is a band of tissue connecting the thyroid gland's right and left lobes across the trachea.

Which artery supplies the thyroid gland?

The superior thyroid artery, originating from the external carotid artery, supplies the thyroid gland.

What is the role of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve?

It innervates the cricothyroid muscle, controlling vocal cord tension and pitch modulation.

Which veins drain blood from the thyroid gland?

The superior and inferior thyroid veins drain into the internal jugular vein and brachiocephalic vein, respectively.

What is the function of the sternothyroid muscle?

It depresses the thyroid cartilage, aiding in swallowing and speech by moving the larynx.

What is the jugular notch?

A depression at the superior border of the manubrium of the sternum, located between the clavicular notches.

What is the function of the hyoid bone?

The hyoid bone supports the tongue and provides attachment sites for swallowing and speech muscles; it does not articulate directly with other bones.

What is the thyroid cartilage?

The largest laryngeal cartilage, known as the 'Adam's apple,' protecting vocal cords and supporting the larynx.

What is the cricoid cartilage's role in respiration?

It forms a complete airway ring, providing support and maintaining unobstructed airflow, located below the thyroid cartilage.

What are tracheal rings?

C-shaped cartilaginous structures that keep the trachea open for airflow to and from the lungs.

What is the cricothyroid membrane?

This membrane connects thyroid to cricoid cartilage and is significant for emergency airway access procedures.

What is the mandibular symphysis?

The fusion line where the mandible halves meet, providing structural integrity during development.

What is the sternal angle?

A palpable landmark where the manubrium meets the sternum's body, aligning with the second rib for rib counting.

What are the roles of internal and external jugular veins?

The internal jugular vein drains the brain, face, and neck; the external jugular vein drains superficial head and neck structures.

What is the common carotid artery?

It supplies oxygenated blood to the head and neck, bifurcating into internal and external carotid arteries for brain and facial supply, respectively.