Arteriosus Jugular Arch in a Cadaveric Specimen

The anterior compartment of the lower neck is considered as a safe region to approach the thyroid gland, larynx, trachea and esophagus. Incisions in the midline are preferred due to their remoteness from the carotid artery and the internal jugular vein (IJV). A common misconception is that neck devoid of superficial large vessels in the midline and formal bleeding does not pose a major risk at this region. We present an interesting anatomic variation of an arteriosus jugular arch in a cadaveric specimen.