Retropharyngeal space is bounded by
buccopharyngeal fascia anteriorly, prevertebral fascia posteriorly, and carotid sheaths laterally.
To the Editor: The parapharyngeal space is a potential neck space between prevertebral fascia and
buccopharyngeal fascia. Parapharyngeal space tumors account for 0.5% of all head and neck neoplasms, of which 80% are benign.[sup][1] Surgical excision is the primary treatment.
The retropharyngeal space lies behind the pharynx between the
buccopharyngeal fascia, which covers the constrictor muscle, and the prevertebral fascia.
The retropharyngeal space is a potential space that lies posterior to the
buccopharyngeal fascia, anterior to the prevertebral fascia of the cervical and thoracic spine and extends laterally to the carotid sheaths.
The buccopharyngeal fascia covers the side and the back of the pharynx.The prevertebral fascia is firmly attached at the midline of the back of the pharynx.
The potential space in between the prevertebral fascia and the buccopharyngeal fascia is known as the retropharyngeal space or also known as the space of Gillette.