strap muscles
The infrahyoid muscles of the neck including sternohyoid, sternothyroid, thyrohyoid, and omohyoid. Often divided during thyroid surgery for exposure.
Full Definition
The strap muscles are a group of paired infrahyoid muscles that lie superficial to the thyroid gland and include the sternohyoid, sternothyroid, thyrohyoid, and omohyoid muscles. These muscles are named for their strap-like appearance and extend from the sternum and clavicle to the hyoid bone and thyroid cartilage. During thyroid surgery, the strap muscles often require division or retraction to provide adequate visualization and access to the thyroid gland. Division is typically performed in the upper portion of the muscles to minimize functional impairment while maximizing surgical exposure.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which muscles are divided and at what level for operative reports.
In Context
- "The strap muscles were divided in their upper third to improve visualization of the thyroid gland." — Operative report
- "Retraction of the strap muscles revealed the thyroid isthmus." — Surgical technique description