The transverse cervical nerve, originating from the cervical plexus (specifically C2 and C3 spinal nerves), is a sensory nerve that supplies the skin of the anterior cervical region.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Origin: The transverse cervical nerve arises from the cervical plexus, a network of nerve fibers located in the neck. It receives contributions from the C2 and C3 spinal nerve roots.
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Course: After emerging from the cervical plexus, the transverse cervical nerve emerges at the middle of the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It then curves around the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid, traveling horizontally across the neck, deep to the platysma muscle.
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Distribution: It provides sensory innervation to the skin of the anterior cervical region, which is essentially the front of the neck.
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Function: Its primary function is to transmit sensory information, such as touch, temperature, and pain, from the skin of the anterior neck to the brain.
In summary, the transverse cervical nerve is a sensory nerve responsible for providing sensation to the skin on the front of the neck. It originates from the cervical plexus (C2-C3) and travels across the neck, supplying the skin in that region.
