Ansa cervicalis

Ansa Cervicalis

Ansa cervicalis (pronunciation: /ˈænsə sɜːrˈvaɪkəlɪs/) is a loop of nerves located in the carotid sheath that is responsible for supplying the infrahyoid muscles in the neck.

Etymology

The term "Ansa cervicalis" is derived from Latin, where "Ansa" means "handle" and "cervicalis" pertains to the neck. Thus, the term can be translated as "handle of the neck".

Structure

The ansa cervicalis is formed by the union of two nerve roots - the superior root and the inferior root. The superior root is derived from the cervical plexus, specifically the C1 and C2 spinal nerves. The inferior root, on the other hand, is derived from the C2 and C3 spinal nerves.

Function

The ansa cervicalis innervates the infrahyoid muscles, which include the sternohyoid muscle, sternothyroid muscle, and omohyoid muscle. These muscles play a crucial role in swallowing and speech.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the ansa cervicalis can result in difficulty swallowing or speaking. This can occur due to neck surgeries, trauma, or certain neurological conditions.

Related Terms

• Cervical plexus
• Carotid sheath
• Sternohyoid muscle
• Sternothyroid muscle
• Omohyoid muscle

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Ansa cervicalis
• Wikipedia's article - Ansa cervicalis

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