Fascial spaces of the head and neck

Fascial Spaces of the Head and Neck

The Fascial Spaces of the Head and Neck (pronunciation: /ˈfæʃəl/ /speɪsɪz/ /ɒv/ /ðə/ /hɛd/ /ænd/ /nɛk/) are potential spaces that exist between the fasciae and underlying organs and tissues. They are clinically significant in the spread of dental abscesses and infections.

Etymology

The term "fascial" is derived from the Latin word "fascia" meaning "band", and the term "space" from the Old English "spæc", meaning "room" or "area".

Anatomy

The fascial spaces of the head and neck are divided into two main groups: the suprahyoid and infrahyoid spaces.

Suprahyoid Spaces

The suprahyoid spaces are located above the hyoid bone. They include the sublingual space, submandibular space, submental space, buccal space, and masticator space.

Infrahyoid Spaces

The infrahyoid spaces are located below the hyoid bone. They include the pretracheal space, retropharyngeal space, parapharyngeal space, and carotid space.

Clinical Significance

The fascial spaces of the head and neck are important in the spread of infections. Infections can spread from one space to another, leading to conditions such as cellulitis, abscess, and necrotizing fasciitis.

Related Terms

• Fascia
• Abscess
• Cellulitis
• Necrotizing fasciitis
• Hyoid bone
• Sublingual space
• Submandibular space
• Submental space
• Buccal space
• Masticator space
• Pretracheal space
• Retropharyngeal space
• Parapharyngeal space
• Carotid space

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Fascial spaces of the head and neck
• Wikipedia's article - Fascial spaces of the head and neck

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