Kaklas

Kaklas is the Lithuanian term for the anatomical region that connects the head to the torso. In English, the corresponding term is neck. The kaklas encompasses the cervical region of the body and is a conduit for air, food, blood vessels, and nerves between the head and the chest.

Anatomically, the kaklas contains the cervical spine (vertebrae C1–C7), muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalene group and trapezius, the larynx, pharynx, esophagus, and the upper portion of the trachea. Major vessels include the carotid arteries and internal jugular veins, as well as the vertebral arteries. Lymph nodes, the thyroid and parathyroid glands are located in the anterior region. Nerves of the neck include the vagus nerve and the cervical plexus.

The neck is organized into visceral and vascular-vertebral compartments by fascia. It functions to support the head, facilitate swallowing and speech, protect the airway and vascular pathways, and enable regional sensation and motor control.

Clinical relevance: common issues include neck pain from muscular strain or cervical spondylosis, whiplash injuries, thyroid disorders, lymphadenopathy, and tumors of neck structures. Infections such as pharyngitis or abscesses may involve the neck spaces.

Assessment and imaging: physical examination focuses on range of motion, palpation of lymph nodes and thyroid, and evaluation of airway patency. Imaging options include ultrasound, X-ray, CT, and MRI as indicated. See also: Cervical spine, Neck.