The Carotid Tubercle is the Anterior Tubercle of the Sixth Cervical Vertebra
The carotid tubercle is the anterior tubercle of the sixth cervical vertebra (C6). This anatomical landmark is clinically significant in various medical procedures and serves as an important reference point in the neck.
Anatomical Description and Significance
The carotid tubercle (also known as Chassaignac's tubercle) has several key characteristics:
- Located on the transverse process of the sixth cervical vertebra (C6)
- More prominent than the anterior tubercles of other cervical vertebrae 1
- Serves as an important palpable landmark in the neck
- Typically located at the level where the common carotid artery can be compressed against it
Clinical Relevance
The carotid tubercle has significant clinical applications:
- Surgical Navigation: Used as a landmark during anterior cervical spine approaches 2
- Vascular Procedures: Helps identify the level of the carotid artery during interventions 1
- Stellate Ganglion Block: Serves as a reference point for needle placement 3, 4
- Cervical Level Identification: Aids in identifying the C6 level during procedures 5
Anatomical Relationships
The carotid tubercle has important relationships to surrounding structures:
- Located approximately 12-13 mm lateral to the cricoid cartilage 4
- Positioned about 19-20 mm posterior to the midpoint of the trachea 4
- Serves as a landmark for the location of the carotid artery and stellate ganglion
- The carotid artery typically passes anterior to this tubercle 3
Distinguishing Features
The anterior tubercle of C6 has unique characteristics that differentiate it from other cervical vertebrae:
- More developed than anterior tubercles of other cervical vertebrae 6
- Has a distinctive morphology compared to other cervical levels 6
- The transverse process of C6 has a cephalad-caudad dimension of approximately 6.7-9.3 mm 4
Clinical Applications
Understanding the precise location of the carotid tubercle is crucial for:
- Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: Proper localization prevents technical difficulties 5
- Vascular Access: Helps avoid carotid artery puncture during procedures 3
- Regional Anesthesia: Critical landmark for stellate ganglion blocks 4
Potential Variations
It's important to note that there can be anatomical variations:
- The size and location of the carotid tubercle may vary between individuals 4
- The distance from other landmarks (like the cricoid cartilage) can range significantly 4
- Awareness of these variations is essential for safe clinical practice
Understanding this specific anatomical landmark is crucial for medical professionals performing procedures in the cervical region, particularly those involving the anterior approach to the cervical spine or procedures near the carotid artery.