scalenus minimus (anatomy)
Last reviewed 01/2018
Scalenus minimus is a practically vestigial muscle located in the root of the neck. Its tendinous insertions can be considered to be the suprapleural membrane on each side. The few contractile fibres which are present are sited just anterior to the transverse process of C7.
The tautness in the sheet prevents herniation of thoracic contents into the neck and vice versa.