The deep cervical artery is a branch of the costocervical trunk, which arises from the subclavian artery. It is responsible for providing blood to the muscles and tissues of the deep posterior neck region. The artery is relatively small but vital for the vascularization of the muscles along the cervical spine.
Location
The deep cervical artery originates from the costocervical trunk, which itself is a branch of the second part of the subclavian artery. It ascends posteriorly through the neck, traveling deep to the muscles of the back and neck, including the semispinalis capitis and cervicis muscles. The artery typically courses between the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae.
Structure and Anatomy
Origin
The deep cervical artery arises from the costocervical trunk, a branch of the second part of the subclavian artery. The costocervical trunk is typically located posterior to the anterior scalene muscle and serves as the origin for both the deep cervical artery and the highest (supreme) intercostal artery.
Course
After originating from the costocervical trunk, the deep cervical artery ascends posteriorly and superiorly within the neck. It travels deep within the posterior cervical region, running between the semispinalis capitis and semispinalis cervicis muscles. It often passes through the transverse processes of the lower cervical vertebrae, remaining adjacent to the vertebral column.
Relations
- Anteriorly: The artery lies deep to the trapezius and other superficial muscles of the posterior neck, including the splenius capitis and levator scapulae.
- Posteriorly: It courses along the posterior surface of the cervical spine, traveling deep to the large extensor muscles of the neck.
- Laterally: It runs close to the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae, supplying blood to nearby muscles.
- Medially: The deep cervical artery is in close relation to the spinous processes of the cervical vertebrae, as well as the posterior portion of the cervical spinal cord.
Branches
As the deep cervical artery ascends through the posterior neck, it gives off multiple muscular branches that supply the deep muscles of the posterior neck, including the semispinalis capitis, semispinalis cervicis, and other smaller muscles. It may also give off small branches that contribute to the vascularization of the cervical vertebrae and the adjacent ligaments.
Termination
The deep cervical artery terminates by anastomosing with other vessels in the region, particularly the occipital artery. This anastomosis helps form part of the collateral blood supply to the posterior scalp and upper cervical muscles.
Anastomoses
The deep cervical artery forms important anastomoses with several other arteries, including the vertebral artery and the occipital artery. These anastomoses ensure a robust blood supply to the muscles and tissues of the posterior neck and upper cervical spine, providing vascular redundancy in case of arterial compromise elsewhere.
Function
Blood Supply to the Deep Neck Muscles
The primary function of the deep cervical artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the deep muscles of the posterior neck, including the semispinalis capitis, semispinalis cervicis, and the multifidus muscles. These muscles are essential for the movement and stabilization of the cervical spine. The deep cervical artery ensures these muscles receive sufficient blood to support their role in extending, rotating, and stabilizing the neck and head.
Vascularization of the Cervical Vertebrae
In addition to supplying the muscles, the deep cervical artery also sends branches to the bones and ligaments of the cervical spine. This includes providing blood flow to the cervical vertebrae and associated ligaments, such as the ligamentum nuchae, which helps stabilize the cervical spine. By nourishing these structures, the artery supports the strength and integrity of the cervical spine, critical for neck mobility and support.
Anastomosis and Collateral Circulation
The deep cervical artery forms anastomoses with the occipital artery, vertebral artery, and sometimes with branches of the ascending cervical artery. These connections are vital in establishing collateral circulation, ensuring that even if one of the primary arteries in the region is blocked or damaged, blood can still reach the cervical muscles and tissues through alternative routes. This redundancy is important during neck surgeries or in the event of trauma, maintaining proper blood flow to the region.
Supply to the Spinal Cord
Although not its primary function, the deep cervical artery may also contribute to the blood supply of the cervical spinal cord through small branches. These branches help ensure that the posterior portion of the spinal cord and the spinal meninges are adequately supplied with blood, supporting spinal cord health and function.
Support for the Posterior Scalp and Occipital Region
Through its anastomosis with the occipital artery, the deep cervical artery indirectly contributes to the blood supply of the posterior scalp and the upper neck. This ensures that the tissues of the occipital region, including the overlying skin and muscles, receive proper vascularization. It plays a supportive role in nourishing the muscles involved in head extension and scalp movement.
Clinical Significance
The deep cervical artery holds clinical importance in both surgical procedures and trauma management involving the posterior neck. Its deep location makes it less likely to be directly injured in most superficial neck trauma; however, in cases of penetrating injuries or fractures involving the cervical vertebrae, damage to this artery can result in significant bleeding. Furthermore, the deep cervical artery is often encountered in surgical procedures, such as those involving the cervical spine (e.g., spinal decompression or fusion) and neck tumor resections.
Its role in anastomosing with the vertebral and occipital arteries provides critical collateral circulation, particularly in cases where blood flow in other cervical arteries is compromised due to atherosclerosis or injury. Knowledge of the deep cervical artery is essential in ensuring adequate blood supply during complex surgeries of the cervical spine or when dealing with posterior neck pathologies. Additionally, an understanding of its course is important in avoiding accidental damage during posterior neck surgeries.
