There are a number of potential spaces in the neck that are importnat as they provide of route for the spread of infection.
Prevertebral space
- Space posterior to the prevertebral fascia
- Infection here can track to the axilla.
Retropharyngeal- Immediately anterior to the prevertebral fascia
- Infection can spread behind carotid sheath and into the posterior triangle of the neck
Parapharyngeal- Lateral continuation of the retropharyngeal space
Submandibular- Superior to investing layer of deep cervical fascia
- On the surface corresponds to submandibular triangle.
- Infection here can give rise to cellulitis involving the floor of the mouth called LUDWIG's ANGINA
Cross sectional anatomy of the neck showing the fascial layers
Cross section through oral cavity showing fascial spaces
Lateral view of neck showing relations of fascial spaces
Submandibular space
