The carotid sheath contains all of the following EXCEPT:
- A Internal jugular vein
- B Common carotid artery
- C Sympathetic chain ✓
- D Vagus nerve
Correct answer: C. Sympathetic chain
Explanation
The carotid sheath encloses three structures: the common/internal carotid artery (anteromedially), the internal jugular vein (anterolaterally), and the vagus nerve (posteriorly between artery and vein). The sympathetic chain lies posteromedial to the carotid sheath, embedded in the prevertebral fascia, and is NOT enclosed within the sheath. This distinction is clinically important as damage to the sympathetic chain causes Horner syndrome.
Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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