Critical periods shaping the early prenatal development of human neck embryo-topography.

Abstract

Given the stable incidence of congenital malformations in newborns worldwide, the study of human prenatal morphology provides critical insights into the origins and variations of human prenatal development, supporting efforts to manage and prevent these developmental abnormalities proactively. The anterior and lateral regions of the human neck contain key structures of the vascular, nervous, respiratory, and digestive systems, making this area particularly significant for clinical interventions such as cyst removal, tumor excision, and reconstructive surgeries. Moreover, data on critical periods of human embryological development enhance diagnostics and prevention of known congenital malformations during specific periods of gestation, especially for patients with a burdened family history.