SURGICAL EXPOSURE OF THE VAGUS NERVE IN THE NECK FOR VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION (VNS THERAPY)
This page was last updated: August 26, 2007
Surgical Exposure of the Left Vagus Nerve in the Neck
A small horizontal incision is made in a natural crease of the neck, at the level of the cricoid cartilage. The left sternocleidomastoid muscle is retracted laterally, and the carotid sheath is opened. The left vagus nerve is exposed as it courses between the common carotid artery and the internal jugular vein. In this picture a self-retaining retractor was used to spread the edges of the incision. A yellow plastic loop was placed around the vagus nerve for easier identification and retraction.
Magnified picture of the surgical anatomy of the vagus nerve in the neck, between the common carotid artery and the internal jugular vein.
Otolaryngology Houston
Bechara Y. Ghorayeb, MD
8830 Long Point, Suite 806
Houston, Texas 77055
For appointments, call 713 464 2614
