Carotid Tubercle

tuberculum caroticum

The carotid tubercle (Chassaignac tubercle) is the large anterior tubercle of the transverse process of the 6th cervical vertebra. It lies at the level of the cricoid cartilage, deep to the front edge of sternocleidomastoid, with the common carotid artery directly in front of it. The vertebral artery usually enters the transverse foramen of C6 just behind it.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Landmarks

Articulations	None directly; part of the transverse process of C6
Landmarks	Level of the cricoid cartilage (C6) Deep to the anterior border of sternocleidomastoid, behind the common carotid artery Attachment of scalenus anterior and longus colli fibres

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

It is the target for a stellate ganglion block, where the needle is placed onto the tubercle and withdrawn slightly before injecting. The common carotid artery can be pressed against it, so firm or prolonged pressure here must be avoided, particularly in older people. It also helps locate the C6 nerve root for ultrasound-guided interscalene blocks.

Palpation

With the person lying on their back and the head straight, find the cricoid cartilage, the firm ring just below the thyroid cartilage. At that level, slide two fingers between the trachea and the front edge of sternocleidomastoid, gently easing the muscle and the carotid pulse outward, then press lightly backward until you meet a firm bony knob. Examine one side at a time with light pressure and stop if the person feels dizzy or unwell.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Stellate Ganglion Block Complications

Injection near the tubercle can cause expected Horner syndrome, but also hoarseness from recurrent laryngeal nerve block or seizures from accidental injection into the vertebral artery.

Explore

More in Neck

Browse all of Neck →