A study of sectional anatomy on the deep cervical fascial space

Objective: To describe and explain the deep cervical fascial space on the transverse section and to provide anatomical basis for the image and clinic diagnosis. Methods: Cryosection was used to make thin serial cross-section of the neck of 15 cadavers. The deep cervical fascial spaces were observed on the serial axial sections. Results: The position, relations and appearing planes of the deep cervical fascial spaces were described. The danger space was proved to exist. It was found the suprasternal space was enclosed by the superficial layer of the deep cervical fasciae and the fasciae of the infrahyoid muscles. The carotid space was an open space, which was communicated posterolaterally with the posterior cervical space. Conclusions: The transverse sectional method may provide more information for the deep cervical fascial spaces.