The sympathetic trunk may be more vulnerable to damage during anterior lower cervical spine procedures because it is situated closer to the medial border of the the longus colli muscle at C6 than at C3. The longus colli muscles diverge laterally, whereas the sympathetic trunks converge medially at C6. As the transverse foramen or uncovertebral joint is exposed with dissection or transverse severance of the longus colli muscle at the lower cervical levels, the sympathetic trunk should be identified and protected.

No abstract

The results of this study suggest that dissection on the posterior aspect of the posterior ring should remain within 12 mm lateral to the midline, and dissection on the superior aspect of the posterior ring should remain within 8 mm of the midline.