Structure
The parotid fascia is a fibrous layer of dense connective tissue surrounding the parotid gland and associated duct, thus covering the facial nerve also. Posteriorly, this fascia is continuous with the deep cervical fascia of the neck. There is an anterior extension of the fascia at the inferior border of the gland which extends superiorly as far as the zygomatic arch where it attaches (Standring, 2016).
Related parts of the anatomy
Anatomical Relations
Anteriorly, the parotid fascia is in direct contact with the parotid gland, from the angle of the mandible to the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly it covers the deep lobe of the gland, from its inferior border as far as the stylomandibular ligament.
Function
The parotid fascia protects the parotid gland. It also aids in anchoring the risorius muscle posteriorly.
List of Clinical Correlates
—Parotitis
References
Standring, S. (2016) Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice, 41st ed. Elsevier Limited.
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Fascia
A fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles, groups of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves.
