Superficial cervical fascia

The superficial cervical fascia is the subcutaneous connective tissue of the neck between the dermis and the deep cervical fascia.

Terminology

As some anatomists have abandoned the term "superficial fascia", calling this layer simply "subcutaneous tissue" is a recommended alternative . Because of this, an unspecified reference to "cervical fascia" mainly refers to the deep cervical fascia.

Gross anatomy

The superficial fascia incorporates the platysma, portions of the anterior and external jugular vein, nerve endings and superficial lymph nodes. Superiorly, the superficial cervical fascia continues as the superficial musculoaponeurotic system of the face, although its exact relationship is controversial .

Related pathology

Traumatic violation of this layer through the platysma constitutes penetrating neck injury.