Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Regional Anatomy II: Head and Neck

Describe the functional matrix theory

The functional matrix theory essentially states that structure reflects function. For instance, the neural skull, which houses the brain, needs to be big and hollow in order to be able to fit the brain, but strong enough to protect it.

Explain the pharyngeal arches and their role in head and neck development

Pharyngeal arches are basically the head and neck's answer to somites (see here if you don't know what a somite is). There are six pharyngeal arches, though one disappears during development, so normally we only talk about five (1, 2, 3, 4, and 6). Each pharyngeal arch is associated with a particular nerve, as well as a bunch of muscles. For instance, the first pharyngeal arch is associated with cranial nerve V (trigeminal) and is associated with the muscles of mastication (though there are exceptions). The second pharyngeal arch is associated with cranial nerve VII (facial) and is associated with the muscles of facial expression (though again there are exceptions).

Explain the interaction of somites and arches in the structures of the head and neck

Myotome-derived muscles (i.e. muscles derived from the myotomes, a type of somite), make up most of the muscles of the neck. However, there are a couple of myotome-derived muscles in the head: the extra-ocular muscles that move the eye, and the tongue muscles. All other muscles in the head are derived from pharyngeal arches.

Have a basic knowledge of the supply and drainage of the head and neck

Visceral structures

This wasn't listed as a learning outcome, but it seemed kind of important when I flicked through the slides. Essentially, most of the visceral structures of the head and neck (nasal cavity, oral cavity, oesophagus, trachea, associated glands) are derived from the foregut. Yay I guess?

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