Compartments of the neck

Watch video

Fasciae of the neck (cervical fascia) are multilayered sheaths of connective tissue that wrap the structures of the neck and can be divided into two layers: a superficial layer (superficial cervical fascia) and a deep layer (deep cervical fascia). The cervical fasciae provide longitudinal organization by separating the tissues of the neck and therefore largely limit the spread of infection in response to pathology or trauma. The superficial cervical fascia (i.e. subcutaneous tissue or tela subcutanea) lies deep to the skin and does not contribute to the formation of the neck compartments. However, the deep cervical fascia typically has three separate layers that contribute to the formation of the spaces and compartments of the neck. These layers include: 

• The superficial layer (investing layer, external layer, parotidomasseteric fascia)
• The middle layer (pretracheal layer, buccopharyngeal fascia)
• The deep layer (deep investing layer, prevertebral layer)

A compartment is a section of the body bounded by fascia. The internal structures of the neck are divided into four main compartments: the visceral compartment, vertebral compartment and two vascular compartments. Each compartment is contained within unique layers of deep cervical fascia. 

The fasciae of the neck also contribute to the formation of three fascial spaces: the pretracheal space, the retropharyngeal space and the danger space (of Grodinsky). These spaces extend from the base of the skull to the mediastinum and in doing so may provide a conduit for the passage of infection from the neck to the thoracic cavity.

Find out more about the cervical fascia, compartments and spaces of the neck with the video below. 

Take a quiz

Now that you have a good understanding of the fascia and compartments of the neck, it’s time to test your knowledge!

Looking for a broader array of questions on the anatomy of the head and neck? Try out our fully customizable quiz below.

Browse atlas

Take a closer look at the compartments of the neck in the gallery below. 

Summary