RETRO PHARYNGEAL ABSCESS SECONDARY TO A SHARP PENETRATING FOREIGN BODY

Abstract

The retropharyngeal space is located immediately posterior to the nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx, larynx and trachea. The buccopharyngeal fascia, which surrounds the pharynx, forms the anterior border. Bounded posteriorly by the alar fascia, the retropharyngeal space is bounded laterally by the carotid sheaths and the parapharyngeal spaces. It extends superiorly to the base of skull and inferiorly to the mediastinum at the level of the tracheal bifurcation [1].