Duplicated transverse cervical nerve and external jugular vein

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Surgical Anatomy
• Morphology

Background:

• The transverse cervical nerve originates from the anterior rami of the second and third cervical spinal nerves, forming part of the cervical plexus.
• Variations in the anatomy of neck structures can impact surgical procedures and diagnostic interpretations.

Observation:

• A unique case involving a duplicated left transverse cervical nerve alongside a duplicated left external jugular vein was identified in a 72-year-old female cadaver.
• The duplicated transverse cervical nerve exhibited bifurcation into superficial and deep branches.
• The superficial branch coursed laterally to the duplicated external jugular vein, supplying cutaneous innervation.
• The deep branch ran medially to the duplicated external jugular vein, anastomosing with other nerves before terminating superficially.

Findings:

• Detailed description of a duplicated transverse cervical nerve and duplicated external jugular vein.
• The superficial branch of the transverse cervical nerve provided cutaneous innervation below the great auricular nerve and to the neck skin.
• The deep branch of the transverse cervical nerve showed complex anastomoses with the superficial transverse cervical nerve and cervical branch of the facial nerve.

Implications:

• This case underscores the significant individual variability in the anatomy of the anterolateral neck.
• Awareness of such anatomical anomalies is essential for surgeons to prevent iatrogenic injury during neck dissections and procedures.
• Contributes to the existing literature on anatomical variations, aiding in improved surgical planning and patient safety.