Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle: An Uncommon Variation of the Sternocleidomastoid

Pinai K Lige

doi:10.37532/1308-4038.16(10).317

Pinai K Lige^*

Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University College of Health, Philippines, Email: Pinai_KL@gmail.com

^*Correspondence: Pinai K Lige, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University College of Health, Philippines, Email: Pinai_KL@gmail.com

Received: 02-Oct-2023, Manuscript No. ijav-23-6827; Editor assigned: 04-Oct-2023, Pre QC No. ijav-23-6827; Accepted Date: Oct 30, 2023; Reviewed: 18-Oct-2023 QC No. ijav-23-6827; Revised: 23-Oct-2023, Manuscript No. ijav-23-6827; Published: 31-Oct-2023, DOI: 10.37532/1308-4038.16(10).317

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Abstract

The Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle (COPM) is a rare anatomical variant characterized by an additional slip of muscle fibers that extends from the sternocleidomastoid muscle to the occipital bone. This abstract explores the anatomy and clinical significance of COPM, shedding light on its potential impact on neck movement, surgical procedures, radiological interpretation, and its role in causing pain and discomfort. This rare anatomical variant underscores the complexity of human anatomy and the need for healthcare professionals to recognize its presence for safe and effective medical practice. Further research may provide valuable insights into the prevalence and functional aspects of this intriguing anomaly.

Keywords

Surgical procedures; Muscle fibers; Medical

INTRODUCTION

The human body, a remarkable and intricate biological masterpiece, continues to captivate anatomists, medical professionals, and researchers with its astonishing diversity and structural anomalies. Within the realm of human anatomy, one such enigmatic peculiarity is the Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle (COPM), an infrequently encountered variation of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM). The sternocleidomastoid muscle, a wellknown and indispensable neck muscle, is an integral part of the intricate web of structures that compose the cervical region. The COPM, a rare morphological variant of this muscle, adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to the already multifaceted field of human anatomy [1].

To appreciate the uniqueness of the Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle, one must first grasp the conventional anatomy of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The SCM is a paired muscle, with one on each side of the neck, originating from the sternum and clavicle and inserting into the mastoid process of the temporal bone and the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone. This vital muscle performs a range of essential functions, including head rotation, flexion, and lateral flexion. It also plays a key role in elevating the sternum during forced inhalation. Its significance is undeniable, and its form, in most individuals, follows a well-defined pattern [2-3].

DISCUSSION

However, the human body is a mosaic of variations, and the Cleido- Occipital Platysma Muscle stands as a testament to this diversity. This rare variant manifests as an additional slip of muscle fibers that extends from the standard SCM to the occipital bone. This supplementary muscle bundle, often tapering as it ascends, inserts onto the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone, frequently joining the SCM at an oblique angle. Although the exact prevalence of this variant remains understudied, it is widely regarded as a rare occurrence, often surprising anatomists, medical professionals, and researchers during dissections and clinical examinations [4].

The discovery of the Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle raises several fascinating questions about the human body’s adaptability and variability. How does this anatomical variation impact the neck’s range of motion and overall biomechanics? What implications does it hold for surgical procedures, and how might it affect radiological interpretations of medical imaging? Are there clinical symptoms or discomfort associated with these variants that have implications for diagnosis and treatment? This article endeavor to delve deeper into these questions, exploring the clinical significance of COPM and its implications for various aspects of medical practice, including surgery, radiology, and patient care [5].

As we navigate the intricate terrain of human anatomy, the Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle emerges as a rare gem, offering insights into the nuances of anatomical diversity and the necessity for healthcare professionals to recognize and understand such variations. The findings surrounding COPM add layers to our understanding of the human body’s intricacies and may have far-reaching implications for patient care and medical interventions. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle, highlighting its rarity and the profound impact it can have on the field of medicine and clinical practice. The human body is a marvel of complexity, with countless variations and anomalies that continue to intrigue and surprise anatomists and medical professionals. One such intriguing anomaly is the Cleido- Occipital Platysma Muscle (COPM), a rare variant of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM). While the sternocleidomastoid muscle itself is a well-known and vital neck muscle, the presence of the Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle presents a unique and fascinating anatomical variation. In this article, we will explore this rare variant, its anatomical characteristics, clinical significance, and the implications it has for medical practice [6-8].

Anatomy of the sternocleidomastoid muscle

Before delving into the Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle, it’s essential to understand the anatomy of the standard sternocleidomastoid muscle. The SCM is a paired muscle located on both sides of the neck. It originates from two separate heads, the sternal head, which originates from the manubrium of the sternum, and the clavicular head, which originates from the medial third of the clavicle. The two heads merge to form a single muscle, and the SCM inserts onto the mastoid process of the temporal bone and the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone. The primary function of the SCM is to perform various actions on the head and neck, including rotation, flexion, and lateral flexion of the head. It also assists in elevating the sternum during forced inhalation [9].

Cleido-occipital platysma muscle: an anatomical rarity

The Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle is a rare anatomical variant characterized by an additional slip of muscle fibers that extends from the sternocleidomastoid muscle to the occipital bone. This additional muscle bundle, which usually tapers as it ascends, inserts onto the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone, often joining the SCM at an oblique angle. While the exact prevalence of this variant is not well-documented, it is considered a rare occurrence, and its discovery can be quite surprising during dissections or medical examinations.

Clinical significance

1. Impact on neck movement: The presence of the Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle can impact the range of motion of the neck and head. In some cases, this additional muscle slip may contribute to changes in the normal biomechanics of the neck, potentially causing muscle imbalances or altered head movements.

2. Implications for surgical procedures: Surgeons performing neck or head surgeries should be aware of this anatomical variant to avoid inadvertent damage during procedures. Proper understanding of the COPM can help prevent complications and ensure safe surgical interventions.

3. Radiological interpretation: Radiologists interpreting medical imaging, such as CT scans or MRIs, must be able to recognize the presence of the Cleido- Occipital Platysma Muscle. Failure to do so may lead to misinterpretation of imaging findings, affecting the diagnosis and treatment planning.

4. Pain and discomfort: In some cases, individuals with the COPM may experience neck pain or discomfort due to altered muscle dynamics. Understanding the presence of this variant can help healthcare providers better diagnose and address such issues [10].

CONCLUSION

The Cleido-Occipital Platysma Muscle represents an intriguing anatomical variation that can have clinical significance. While it is considered rare, it underscores the complexity of the human body and the need for a comprehensive understanding of anatomy in medical practice. Recognizing the presence of the COPM can be crucial for healthcare professionals, especially surgeons, radiologists, and physiotherapists, to ensure safe and effective treatment and diagnosis. Further research into the prevalence and functional aspects of this rare variant may provide valuable insights into the complexities of human anatomy.