American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Exam Success

The longus colli muscle is a key structure associated with the cervical spine, residing deep in the neck. This muscle plays a significant role in stabilizing and flexing the cervical vertebrae. Its anatomical position allows it to connect various cervical vertebrae, contributing to movements such as neck flexion and rotation.

While other muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalenus anterior, and trapezius are also associated with the cervical region, they serve different functions. The sternocleidomastoid is primarily responsible for rotating and flexing the head. The scalenus anterior assists with lateral flexion, as well as elevating the first rib during inhalation. The trapezius, while it has cervically related attachments, primarily stabilizes and moves the shoulder girdle and upper limbs rather than focusing on the cervical spine itself.

Thus, the longus colli is the most directly related muscle involved with the intricate dynamics of the cervical spine, making it the correct choice in this context.