The scalene muscle is a group of three muscles that are located in the neck area. These muscles are important for the movement and stability of the neck, as well as for breathing. The middle scalene muscle is one of the three scalene muscles and is located between the anterior and posterior scalene muscles.
The middle scalene muscle descends along the side of the vertebral column and attaches broadly to the upper surface of the first rib, posterior to the subclavian groove. This muscle is responsible for the lateral flexion of the neck, as well as for the elevation of the first rib during inhalation. It also helps to stabilize the neck during movements that involve the head and arms.
The middle scalene muscle passes through a narrow opening in the neck called the scalene gap. This gap is formed by the anterior and middle scalene muscles and the first rib. The brachial plexus and the subclavian artery pass through this gap and can be compressed if the muscles become tight or inflamed. This compression can lead to thoracic outlet syndrome, which is a condition that causes numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm.
The presence of the scalene fat pad can make it difficult to feel the structures of the thoracic outlet when pressing with the fingers on the lower neck. Part of the omohyoid muscle, a small muscle that runs across the lower part of the neck, passes through the scalene fat pad. This can also contribute to the compression of the brachial plexus and subclavian artery.
The middle scalene muscle is an important muscle in the neck that is responsible for the lateral flexion of the neck, elevation of the first rib, and stabilization of the neck during movements that involve the head and arms. It passes through the scalene gap, which is a narrow opening in the neck that can compress the brachial plexus and subclavian artery if the muscles become tight or inflamed. Understanding the anatomy and function of the middle scalene muscle is important in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome.
Where Does The Middle Scalene Muscle Pass Through?
The middle scalene muscle is located in the neck region and it passes through the side of the vertebral column. It has a broad attachment and inserts into the upper surface of the first rib, specifically posterior to the subclavian groove. Notably, the brachial plexus and the subclavian artery pass anterior to it.
What Muscle Passes Through The Scalene Gap?
The muscle that passes through the scalene gap is called the omohyoid muscle. This small muscle crosses the lower part of the neck and runs through the scalene fat pad, which can make it difficult to feel the structures of the thoracic outlet when pressing with the fingers on the lower neck. It is important to note that the scalene fat pad can obscure the view of the omohyoid muscle and other structures in the area, making it challenging to diagnose certain conditions. Therefore, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for accurate assessment and treatment.
Which Structure Lies Posterior To The Anterior Scalene Muscle In The Scalene Gap?
In the scalene gap, the structure that lies posterior to the anterior scalene muscle is the middle scalene muscle. The anterior border of the interscalene triangle is formed by the scalenus anterior muscle and the inferior border is made up of the first rib. The scalenus medius muscle forms the posterior border of this space. The scalene gap is an important anatomical region as it contains important nerves and blood vessels, such as the brachial plexus and subclavian artery.
What Is The Scalene Triangle And What Passes Through It?
The scalene triangle, also known as the interscalene triangle, is a triangular space located laterally at the root of the neck. It serves as a passageway for several important anatomical structures. These structures include the roots and trunks of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that innervate the upper limb, and the third part of the subclavian artery, which is a major blood vessel that supplies blood to the upper limb and chest wall. The anterior scalene muscle forms the anterior border of the triangle, while the middle scalene muscle forms the posterior border, and the first rib serves as the base of the triangle. The scalene triangle is an important landmark for medical professionals, as it is often involved in vrious clinical procedures and is susceptible to compression syndromes that can cause pain and other symptoms in the upper limb.
Conclusion
The scalene muscle is a group of three muscles located on the side of the neck that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. These muscles aid in the movement of the neck, respiration, and also serve as a passage for important structures such as the brachial plexus and subclavian artery. The scalene triangle, formed by the scalene muscles and the firt rib, is a significant anatomical landmark that serves as an exit point for crucial nerves and vessels. The scalene muscle is an essential muscle that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and functionality of the neck and upper body. Understanding its location, function, and relationship with other structures can help in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions related to the neck and upper body.
