Transverse Cervical Nerve

nervus transversus cervicis

The transverse cervical nerve (C2-C3) is a branch of the cervical plexus that curves around the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid at its midpoint, crosses the muscle horizontally, and fans out into superior and inferior branches that supply cutaneous sensation to the anterior and lateral neck from the mandible superiorly to the sternum and clavicle inferiorly.

Region: Neck

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The midpoint of the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid is referred to as the nerve point or punctum nervosum of the neck, where several cervical plexus branches emerge in close proximity. This is the target for superficial cervical plexus block, used for analgesia during carotid endarterectomy, thyroid surgery, and clavicle operations. The nerve is vulnerable during neck dissection, producing anterior neck numbness described by patients as a tight or numb sensation when shaving or touching the anterior neck.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Neck Dissection Neuropraxia

Transection or stretch during radical or selective neck dissection for head and neck cancer causes anterior neck numbness, occasionally permanent, which patients notice during shaving, dressing, or skin contact and which generally improves partially over months as adjacent nerve territories expand.