Tissue spaces in neck
Clinical relevance: spread of infection
Prevertebral space
- Extent: anterior surfaces of the transverse processes and bodies of vertebrae C1 to C7
- Track to Axilla region
retropharyngeal space
- Extent: anterior to prevertebral fascia
- between the buccopharyngeal fascia (on the posterior surface of the pharynx and esophagus) and the prevertebral fascia
- Track to carotid sheath + posterior triangle of neck
'danger space'
Boundaries:
- skull base
- posterior mediastinum at level of diaphragm
- prevertebral layer of deep cervical fascia
- alar fascia of deep cervical fascia
Retropharyngeal abscess (mentioned in sore throat) can spread via 'danger space' (awful name) to mediastinum
parapharyngeal
submandibular
- Extent: superior to deep cervical fascia
- Track of floor of mouth = Ludwig's angina