Sternocephalic muscle
Musculus sternocephalicus
Definition
The sternocephalicus muscle is a superficial, paired, and elongated muscle of the ventral region of the neck in domestic animals. It connects the sternum to the head and is mainly involved in movements of the head and neck.
Origin: Manubrium of the sternum
Insertion: Bones of the head, varying according to species (mastoid process of the temporal bone, occipital crest, or mandible)
Artery: Branches of the common carotid artery
Nerve: Innervated by branches of the cervical nerves
Action: The sternocephalicus muscle flexes the head and neck. When contracting unilaterally, it inclines and rotates the head toward the side of contraction.
Antagonist: Dorsal neck muscles (splenius, longissimus capitis)
Description: A superficial and easily identifiable muscle, the sternocephalicus runs longitudinally along the ventral aspect of the neck. It forms a visible relief beneath the skin and contributes to head stability and mobility.
Variations: In the dog, it is divided into two parts: the sternomastoideus and the sternooccipitalis. In the horse and ruminants, it is generally single and well developed. In the pig, its development is more variable, and its insertions may differ slightly.
References
Miller’s Anatomy of the Dog. Evans HE, de Lahunta A. Miller’s Anatomy of the Dog. 4th ed. St. Louis (MO): Elsevier Saunders; 2013.
Guide to the Dissection of the Dog. Evans HE, de Lahunta A. Guide to the Dissection of the Dog. 7th ed. St. Louis (MO): Elsevier; 2014.
Textbook of Veterinary Anatomy. Dyce KM, Sack WO, Wensing CJG. Textbook of Veterinary Anatomy. 5th ed. St. Louis (MO): Elsevier; 2017.
Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria. International Committee on Veterinary Gross Anatomical Nomenclature. Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria. 6th ed. Hannover: World Association of Veterinary Anatomists; 2017.
