Contributions of the hypoglossal nerve to the innervations of the recti capiti lateralis and anterior

Clin Anat. 2004 Nov;17(8):613-7. doi: 10.1002/ca.20027.

Abstract

We dissected five Japanese cadavers (three males, two females) to investigate the innervations of the anterior vertebral muscles. According to our observations, it could be considered that the hypoglossal nerve would participates in the innervations of the recti capiti lateralis and anterior. In addition, we observed the small muscle bundle spanning between the recti capiti lateralis and anterior, which was not reported in previous studies as far as we know. This bundle received a branch of the hypoglossal nerve or the first cervical nerve. Based on the morphology and the innervation pattern, this bundle was considered to have close relationships with the recti capiti lateralis and anterior, especially with the former muscle.

MeSH terms

  • Cadaver
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypoglossal Nerve / anatomy & histology*
  • Male
  • Muscle, Skeletal / innervation*
  • Neck / anatomy & histology
  • Neck / innervation