Carotid Sheath and carotid triangle

Question 1

Where and what is the carotid sheath made up of

Answer 1

It is found deep to the sternocleidomastoid muscle and is derived from a fusion of:
o The Prevertebral layer of cervical fascia
 Posteriorly
o The Pretracheal layer of cervical fascia
 Anteromedially
o The Superficial layer of cervical fascia
 Anterolaterally

Question 2

Contents of the carotid sheath

Answer 2

o The common carotid artery
o Internal jugular vein
o The vagus nerve (CN X)

Question 3

Boundaries of the carotid triangle

Answer 3

Superiorly - Posterior Belly of the Digastric

Laterally - Sternocleidomastoid

Medially - Superior belly of Omohyoid