AnatomyDeck

Vessel

Superior vena cava

Drains the upper body

TrunkCardiovascular system

High-yield

Formed by the union of the right and left brachiocephalic veins; the azygos vein arches into it. SVC obstruction causes facial/neck congestion.

Overview

A large valveless vein returning deoxygenated blood from the head, neck, upper limbs, and thorax to the right atrium.

Reference facts

  • Type

    Vein

  • Origin

    Union of the right and left brachiocephalic veins

  • Branches / tributaries

    Receives the azygos vein (tributary)

  • Drains

    Drains the head, neck, upper limbs, and thoracic wall into the right atrium

  • Course

    Descends on the right side of the mediastinum to empty into the superior right atrium

Clinical correlation

SVC syndrome (often from lung tumor compression) causes facial swelling, plethora, and distended neck veins.

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