Gross and radiographic anatomy

The purpose of this chapter is to review pertinent anatomy of the head and neck that is relevant to both the otolaryngologist and anesthesiologist. The chapter provides the otolaryngologist with an overview of imaging technologies and a concise anatomic review, while also providing the anesthesiologist with a working knowledge of head and neck anatomy and an ability to interpret normal and pathologic head and neck radiographic imaging. Although the intention of this chapter is not meant to supplant the importance of consultation with otolaryngology and radiology colleagues, the ability to interpret head and neck radiographic imaging is critical for the anesthesiologist caring for patients with head and neck pathology. The chapter is divided into two anatomic sections, the airway and the deep neck spaces. Each section includes a discussion of basic anatomy, related pathology, helpful radiological imaging studies, and innervation with related nerve blocks for those contemplating regional anesthesia of the head and neck. The chapter concludes with (Appendix A), a series of CT scans and a MRI that highlights the normal anatomy and a summary of the abbreviations used for each figure throughout the chapter (Appendix B) (see Box 2.1).