Anatomy and Function of the Internal Jugular and Brachiocephalic Veins

Course and Relations of the Brachiocephalic Vein

The brachiocephalic veins play a vital role in the circulatory system by draining deoxygenated blood from the head, neck, and upper limbs into the superior vena cava. These veins are formed by the confluence of the subclavian and internal jugular veins.

Anatomical Course

• The right brachiocephalic vein is shorter and runs almost vertically.
• The left brachiocephalic vein is longer and obliquely crosses over the major arteries.

Clinical Significance

Due to their proximity to major arteries, these veins are critical in central venous catheterization procedures and can be involved in thoracic outlet syndrome or vascular compression syndromes.