The cervical plexus is a paired network of nerve loops and branches formed by the anterior rami of C1-5 spinal nerves. It provides sensory and motor innervation to structures in the neck.

Figure 1. Schematic drawing of the cervical plexus

Description

The cervical plexus consists of the following components:

  1. Ansa Cervicalis
  2. C1 branches
  3. C1 & C2 branches
  4. C2 & C3 branches
  5. C3 & C4 branches
  6. C3-C5 branch (Phrenic nerve)
  7. Cranial nerves

The schematic drawing above (Figure 1.) represents all the major paths and branches you should know; it would be extremely useful to practice drawing it!

Location

  • The cervical plexus is located at the lateral cervical region
  • Underneath the sternocleidomastoid
  • Anterolateral to the levator scapulae and middle scalene muscles
  • Its cutaneous branches are visible at the posterior edge of the sternocleidomastoid (also called Erb’s point)
  • The ansa cervicalis can be found embedded within the carotid sheath

Ansa cervicalis

The ansa cervicalis is a loop formed by two roots:

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