Imaging of the perivertebral space

Abstract

The perivertebral space extends from the skull base to the mediastinum and is delineated by the deep layer of the deep cervical fascia. The different tissue types, including muscles, bones, nerves, and vascular structures, give rise to the various disorders that can be seen in this space. This article defines the anatomy of the perivertebral space, guides lesion localization, discusses different disease processes arising within this space, and reviews the best imaging approaches.

Keywords: Deep cervical fascia; Infrahyoid neck; Paraspinal space; Perivertebral space; Prevertebral space; Suprahyoid neck.