Anterior facial vein

Anterior Facial Vein

The veins of the face, showing the anterior facial vein (labeled as facial vein) and its tributaries.

The anterior facial vein (or facial vein) is a vein that drains the facial structures and communicates with the veins of the scalp and neck. It is a major circulatory pathway in the human body.

Structure

The anterior facial vein begins at the side of the root of the nose and is a direct continuation of the angular vein where the supratrochlear vein joins it. It lies behind the facial artery and follows a less tortuous course.

Function

The anterior facial vein drains the eyelids, side of the nose, cheek, lips, and chin. It communicates with the ophthalmic veins, deep facial vein, and pterygoid plexus.

Clinical significance

Due to its connections with the cavernous sinus through the ophthalmic veins, infections from the facial region can spread to the brain, leading to serious complications such as cavernous sinus thrombosis.

See also

• Veins of the head and neck
• Facial artery
• Deep facial vein

External links

• AnatomyExpert