Human Anatomy - Kotsan I. Y. 2009

Muscles and fasciae of the neck
Deep muscles of the neck
Lateral group of deep neck muscles

According to their topography, the Deep Muscles of the Neck are divided into lateral and medial (prevertebral) groups.

The lateral group includes the anterior, middle, and posterior scalene muscles (Fig. 113).

The anterior scalene Muscle (m. scalenus anterior) originates from the transverse processes of the third to sixth cervical vertebrae and attaches to the scalene tubercle of the first rib.

Innervation: Cervical plexus (СV—СVIII).

The middle scalene muscle (m. scalenus medius) originates from the transverse processes of the II–VII cervical vertebrae and attaches to the superior surface of the first rib, posterior to the groove for the Subclavian Artery.

Innervation: cervical plexus (СІІІ—СVІІІ).

The posterior scalene muscle (m. scalenus posterior) originates from the posterior tubercles of the IV–VI cervical vertebrae and attaches to the superior margin and external surface of the II rib. The muscle often has an additional deep HEAD arising from the transverse process of the VII cervical vertebra.

Innervation: cervical plexus (СVІ—СVІІІ).

Function of the scalene muscles: when the Ribs are fixed and the muscles contract bilaterally, they flex the cervical spine. During unilateral contraction, they flex and tilt the cervical spine to their respective side. Conversely, if the cervical spine is fixed, the scalene muscles elevate the I–II ribs, assisting in deep respiratory movements.

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Fig. 113. Muscles of the neck (lateral view)

1 — buccinator muscle, 2 — lateral pterygoid muscle, 3 — medial pterygoid muscle, 4 — thyrohyoid muscle, 5 — sternothyroid muscle, 6 — sternohyoid muscle, 7 — anterior scalene muscle, 8 — middle scalene muscle, 9 — posterior scalene muscle, 10 — trapezius muscle

Between the anterior scalene muscle and the sternothyroid muscle lies the pre-scalene space, which contains the subclavian vein and the phrenic nerve.

Between the anterior and middle scalene muscles lies the interscalene space, which houses the subclavian artery and the trunks of the Brachial Plexus.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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