Vessel
Internal jugular vein
A principal outflow channel from the cranium and neck
High-yield
Remember the usual sheath relationship: artery medial, jugular vein lateral and vagus behind the interval. Vessel overlap, diameter and position vary, especially with neck position.
Overview
The internal jugular continues from the sigmoid sinus at the jugular foramen and descends within the carotid sheath. It is usually lateral or anterolateral to the carotid artery, with the vagus posteriorly between them. Near the sternoclavicular joint it joins the subclavian vein to form the brachiocephalic vein.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Continuation of the sigmoid sinus at the jugular foramen, usually with a superior jugular bulb.
- Course
- Descends deep to sternocleidomastoid beside the carotid arteries. An inferior dilation and valves commonly occur near its termination, with individual variation.
- Branches
- Inferior petrosal, facial, lingual, pharyngeal, superior thyroid and middle thyroid tributaries, with variable additional or shared channels.
- Supplies
- This is a drainage vessel: it receives blood from the brain, meninges and portions of the face and neck.
- Drains to
- Joins the subclavian vein near the sternoclavicular joint to form the brachiocephalic vein.
Clinical correlation
The jugular venous pulse provides an estimate of right-atrial pressure; the right side is often easier to interpret because of its more direct course. Its variable relationship to the carotid explains the importance of imaging when clinicians use it for central venous access.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the internal jugular vein originate?
The internal jugular vein arises from the continuation of the sigmoid sinus at the jugular foramen, usually with a superior jugular bulb.
What does the internal jugular vein supply?
This is a drainage vessel: it receives blood from the brain, meninges and portions of the face and neck.
Where does the internal jugular vein drain to?
The internal jugular vein drains to the joins the subclavian vein near the sternoclavicular joint to form the brachiocephalic vein.
What are the branches of the internal jugular vein?
Inferior petrosal, facial, lingual, pharyngeal, superior thyroid and middle thyroid tributaries, with variable additional or shared channels.