Retropharyngeal Space: Morphometric And Relative Analysis With Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography

Authors : Tayfun Aygün, Arif Keskin, Uluhan Eryürük, Erdem Çaylı

Pages : 1364-1371

Doi:10.37989/gumussagbil.1727883

View : 78 | Download : 159

Publication Date : 2025-12-24

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The aim of this study was to evaluate the normal RPS anatomy in the adult population, to determine reference values, and to examine proportional relationships with surrounding structures. This retrospective study included 225 adults (128 females, 97 males; age range: 18–95) who underwent contrast-enhanced cervical CT at a tertiary hospital. Patients with neck pathology, recent surgery, or history of infection were excluded from the study. The anteroposterior (AP) and transverse diameters of the RPS at each cervical vertebral level were measured; proportional values were calculated by comparing with the vertebral body measurements. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 27.0 and the significance level was accepted as p<0.05. RPS could be observed up to the C7 level in 31 patients. While the absolute AP and transverse diameters were larger in men, the relative sizes at all levels were higher in women. However, only the data at the C1, C2, C4 and C5 levels were significant (p<0.05). A positive correlation was found between age and proportional RPS sizes at some levels in women. The C4 level stood out as an anatomical transition point between the superior and inferior RPS regions. Although the absolute sizes of the RPS were larger in men, it was observed that the RPS was proportionally larger in women compared to the vertebral bodies. These anatomical differences may be important in terms of the emergence and tolerability of clinical findings in pathologies related to RPS.
Keywords : Fasyalar, Baş ve boyun anatomisi, Bölgesel anatomi, Retrofaringeal aralık

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL