Sternohyoid Muscles, Anterior View

Description

Running vertically on either side of the anterior cervical midline, the paired sternohyoid muscles are highlighted as superficial infrahyoid strap muscles extending from the manubrium of the sternum and medial clavicle to the body of the hyoid bone. Their medial borders approximate the midline over the laryngeal prominence, while the sternocleidomastoid muscles sit more laterally and obliquely, framing the anterior neck. Superiorly, the suprahyoid region and lower facial musculature (including orbicularis oris and adjacent muscles of facial expression) remain visible, with pectoralis major and the anterior deltoid anchoring the upper torso inferiorly. Anterior views like this matter when teaching the layered approach to the anterior neck, because sternohyoid is a first-dissection landmark that must be reflected or split to reach the thyroid gland, larynx, and trachea through the cervical linea alba. In thyroidectomy and tracheostomy planning, the relationship of the strap muscles to the hyoid and manubrium helps orient the surgeon to the midline corridor and to the plane superficial to the larynx. Midline matters. Use this illustration for head and neck anatomy courses, endocrine surgery teaching decks, and otolaryngology references that need a clear depiction of the infrahyoid strap muscles in anatomical position, including their continuity from upper thorax to hyoid. It also fits well in patient-education materials explaining neck incisions and postoperative strap muscle soreness or dysphagia related to retraction. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.