11.1.2 Cervical Plexus

Question 1

What nerves contribute to the cervical plexus?

Answer 1

Anterior rami of C1-C4

Question 2

Where is the cervical plexus?

Answer 2

Lines the middle scalene and levator scapulae deep to SCM

Question 3

Where do the sensory branches of the cervical plexus emerge?

Answer 3

At the posterior border of the SCM

Found in posterior triangle

Question 4

What do the sensory branches of the cervical plexus supply?

Answer 4

• Skin of neck
• Superior thorax C2 to C4 (anterolateral neck and upper sternum)
• Posterosuperior scalp
• External ear

Question 5

What is the ansa cervicalis?

Answer 5

Motor branch loop from cervical plexus, C1-3

Supplies the infrahyoids

Question 6

Where do you find the ansa cervicalis?

Answer 6

Sits on the IJV, carotid sheath

Question 7

What nerve roots form the phrenic nerve?

Answer 7

C3,4 and ventral ramus of C5

Keeps the diaphragm alive

Question 8

What is a cervical plexus block?

Answer 8

When doing neck surgery can block the sensory nerves

Nerve point: Midway on posterior SCM

This is where all sensory nerves enter the skin