Anatomy of the Neck and Pharynx—Structure and Function at the Junction Between the Head and the Trunk

The neck begins at the head, immediately below the edge of the jaw. It is bounded at the front by the sternum and the clavicle. The nape of the neck is located at the back of the neck.

The spine defines the boundary of the neck. It is located between the first and seventh cervical vertebrae. The first cervical vertebra is called the atlas. Its function is to support the entire weight of the head. The term “atlas” originates from Greek mythology and refers to the Titan Atlas, who carried the weight of the heavens on his shoulders.

Running alongside the spine are vital pathways that supply the body with, among other things, food and air. Key structures include the aorta (the main artery), the esophagus and trachea, and the vagus nerve (the tenth cranial nerve).

The esophagus and trachea are separated from one another by the larynx. It is the organ essential for human speech. The vocal cords are located within it. Sound production, speaking, singing, or laughing are only possible through the larynx.

Below the larynx and immediately in front of the trachea lies the thyroid gland. This endocrine gland is shaped like a butterfly and regulates the body’s hormonal balance. The tonsils and lymph nodes of the lymphatic system are also located in the neck.

The function of the spine is to ensure the mobility of the entire head region. Breathing occurs through the trachea. The esophagus allows food to be transported to the stomach.

The larynx has two distinct functions. With regard to food intake, the epiglottis ensures that food is safely transported into the esophagus. During swallowing, it closes off the trachea, thereby preventing food from entering the airways. The larynx’s second function involves the vocal cords (vocal folds). They are capable of vibrating, which is how they produce the sound of the voice.

The thyroid gland produces the vital hormones L-thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These are essential for a properly functioning metabolism. In addition, the thyroid gland influences the body’s oxygen consumption through cellular metabolism. It also influences the conversion of nutrients (fats, carbohydrates, proteins) through energy metabolism. Thyroid hormones also affect the functioning of the cardiovascular system and processes in the gastrointestinal tract.

The tonsils and lymph nodes in the neck region are responsible for the functioning of the immune system. The tonsils are part of what is known as the lymphatic pharyngeal ring. Its role is to form a defensive barrier to prevent viruses and bacteria from entering the upper respiratory tract.

One of the most common complaints in the throat area concerns mobility. It can be restricted by a variety of different symptoms. If no organic findings are present, the diagnosis is usually “stiff neck.” Causes often include muscle strain or long-term effects of postural problems. Those affected complain of severe pain and stiffness in the muscles and have difficulty moving their neck in all directions. Physical therapy, primarily consisting of mobility exercises, provides relief. If there are additional signs of wear and tear or a disc problem—such as a cervical disc herniation—treatment is lengthy and complex.

Sore throats are also among the most commonly reported complaints. They are usually associated with inflammatory processes, such as a cold or tonsillitis. Cold symptoms are usually uncomplicated and can often be treated with home remedies. If the infection also affects the tonsils, it is advisable to see a doctor.

Laryngeal disorders, such as inflammation of the laryngeal mucosa, are also among the conditions affecting the throat. Laryngitis is always caused by a viral infection and usually presents with hoarseness and a severe dry cough. If there is already significant swelling of the mucous membrane, breathing difficulties often occur as well. Resting the voice is just as helpful as steam inhalations. In cases of severe symptoms, the doctor prescribes medications that inhibit the inflammatory process.

The anatomy of the neck shows that numerous important pathways and structures run through the neck, including the carotid artery, the internal jugular vein, and the carotid artery. The neck region also contains many lymph nodes, which may become palpable as swollen lymph nodes in the event of inflammation. Anatomically, the neck is divided by the cervical fascia and other cervical fascial structures such as the lamina superficialis, lamina pretrachealis, and lamina prevertebralis. The carotid sheath contains the carotid artery, the internal jugular vein, and the vagus nerve, all of which perform essential functions. The cervical plexus and the brachial plexus supply the neck and adjacent areas with nerves, while important blood vessels such as the subclavian artery are also involved.

Muscular structures such as the sternocleidomastoid, the platysma, the neck muscles, the trapezius, the scalene muscles, and the levator scapulae stabilize the neck musculature and enable movement in the cervical spine. Landmarks such as the mastoid process, the manubrium of the sternum, the acromion of the scapula, and the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra anatomically define the neck. The neck, known as the collum or cervix, is a functionally important region between the head and the trunk and extends from the lower edge of the external occipital protuberance to the junction with the trunk.

The neck contains the cervical organs—such as the larynx, pharynx, and thyroid gland—which are crucial for voice production, food intake, and breathing. The mucous membrane in the area of the base of the tongue and the epiglottis protects against infections, although conditions such as pharyngitis or laryngitis can occur frequently. Additionally, nerves such as the phrenic nerve, as well as numerous blood vessels and cervical veins that supply the tissue, run through the neck. Overall, it is evident that anatomically complex structures, including the visceral fascia, work closely together, and that the neck plays a central role in vital functions.