Vessel
Subclavian vein
The upper-limb venous route in front of the anterior scalene
High-yield
The anterior scalene normally separates subclavian vein in front from subclavian artery behind.
Overview
At the lateral edge of the first rib, the axillary vein becomes the subclavian vein. It passes beneath the clavicle and anterior to the anterior scalene before joining the internal jugular vein. This route differs from the artery's passage behind that muscle.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Continuation of the axillary vein at the lateral first-rib border
- Course
- Medially beneath the clavicle, crossing the first rib anterior to anterior scalene
- Branches
- Receives the external jugular and other variable neck tributaries; lymphatic trunks usually enter near the venous angle
- Supplies
- Drains upper-limb blood with additional neck and chest-wall contributions
- Drains to
- Joins the internal jugular vein to form the brachiocephalic vein
Clinical correlation
Compression at the costoclavicular region can impair venous outflow and contribute to thrombosis. Nearby pleura and arteries are relevant to central venous procedures, which require individual anatomical assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the subclavian vein originate?
The subclavian vein arises from the continuation of the axillary vein at the lateral first-rib border.
What territory does the subclavian vein serve?
Drains upper-limb blood with additional neck and chest-wall contributions.
Where does the subclavian vein drain to?
The subclavian vein drains to the joins the internal jugular vein to form the brachiocephalic vein.
What are the branches of the subclavian vein?
Receives the external jugular and other variable neck tributaries; lymphatic trunks usually enter near the venous angle.