ABSTRACT

External examination of the neck begins with careful inspection in a good light. The neck is viewed from the front and side. The normal anatomical features are sought, and any large masses may be immediately seen. The neck is then palpated with the examiner’s hands. This is most readily done from behind, but it is also important to make a brief examination from the front. The areas of the neck are systematically felt, commencing in the mid-line and then examining the anterior and posterior triangles of the neck. The thyroid gland is examined, and this is facilitated by asking the patient to swallow, which causes the thyroid gland and any other structure attached to the pretracheal fascia to move upwards.