The posterior triangle and posterior muscles of the neck in 3-dimensions: creating a digital anatomic model using peer-reviewed literature, radiographic imaging, and an experienced medical illustrator

The posterior cervical triangle houses an important nodal basin in the spread of several cancers in the head and neck, particularly cutaneous malignancies of the scalp. A safe and effective Level V neck dissection necessitates thorough understanding of the neurovascular structures housed within the region. Conventional 2D anatomical representations offer insights into the named structures but fall short in illustrating the spatial relationships crucial in surgery. Here, we aim to develop an anatomically precise 3D virtual model of the posterior cervical triangle and its constituent structures. Musculature and neurovasculature were segmented from the computerized tomography (CT) angiogram of a healthy 29-year-old female. Literature review of cadaveric studies was performed to identify the most common variants, relevant surgical relationships, and usual dimensions of structures contained in the model. Both radiographic and anatomic data were used to inform the creation of a 3D model. This accurate 3D anatomical model will serve to supplement the education of practicing and aspiring head and neck surgeons.