Vessel
Superior vena cava
Drains the upper body
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.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the superior vena cava originate?
The superior vena cava arises from the union of the right and left brachiocephalic veins.
What does the superior vena cava drain?
The superior vena cava drains the head, neck, upper limbs, and thoracic wall into the right atrium.
What are the tributaries of the superior vena cava?
Tributaries of the superior vena cava include the receives the azygos vein (tributary).
What is the course of the superior vena cava?
Descends on the right side of the mediastinum to empty into the superior right atrium.