Superficial layer of the deep cervical fascia

Last revised by Tee Yu Jin on 14 Aug 2022

The superficial layer of the deep cervical fascia, also known as the investing layer, is the one of three layers of the deep cervical fascia that surrounds all of the neck that is deep to the platysma. The layer includes the masticator fascia, submandibular fascia, and sternocleidomastoid-trapezius fascia 1. The fascia that superficially covers the parotid gland may also be derived from this layer, but this inclusion is controversial 1.

Gross anatomy

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The superficial layer of the deep cervical fascia encircles everything in the neck apart from the skin and superficial cervical fascia (subcutaneous tissue). In addition, it splits to enclose the following structures 1-3:

In addition, all layers of the deep cervical fascia contribute to the carotid sheath.

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