Retropharyngeal Fascia

fascia retropharyngea

The retropharyngeal fascia is a condensation of the alar fascia forming the posterior wall of the retropharyngeal space, separating it from the prevertebral space. It extends from the skull base to the superior mediastinum.

Anatomical Data

Boundaries & Contents

Location	Behind the pharynx, forming the back wall of the retropharyngeal space
Boundaries	Above: base of the skull Laterally: attached to the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae Below: fuses with the buccopharyngeal fascia at about C7 to T2 In front: retropharyngeal space; behind: danger space

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Divides the space behind the pharynx into the retropharyngeal space in front and the danger space behind, which matters for how neck infections spread to the mediastinum.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Retropharyngeal abscess (most common in children) collects in the space anterior to this fascia. Perforation of the fascia by infection or tumour allows spread to the prevertebral space and then to the posterior mediastinum (danger space). Posterior pharyngeal wall approach for anterior C1-C2 tumours traverses this fascia.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Retropharyngeal Abscess

Infection of the retropharyngeal space anterior to the fascia producing a posterior pharyngeal bulge, drooling, and airway compromise, requiring incision and drainage.

Danger Space Infection Spread

Perforation of the retropharyngeal fascia allowing infection to spread down the prevertebral danger space to the posterior mediastinum, a life-threatening complication.

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