Anterior jugular vein

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Anterior Jugular Vein

The anterior jugular vein, as depicted in Gray's Anatomy.

The anterior jugular vein is a vein located in the neck that collects blood from the inferior part of the face and the neck. It is a part of the jugular venous system.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The anterior jugular vein originates from the submandibular region, near the hyoid bone. It descends in the neck, superficial to the sternocleidomastoid muscle, and drains into the external jugular vein or the subclavian vein. The two anterior jugular veins are often connected by a transverse trunk, the jugular venous arch, which lies above the sternum.

Function[edit | edit source]

The anterior jugular vein is responsible for draining blood from the face and neck. It also plays a role in the regulation of cerebral blood flow.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Due to its superficial location, the anterior jugular vein is often used for central venous catheterization. It can also be affected by various medical conditions, such as jugular vein thrombosis and jugular vein distention.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Admin, Prab R. Tumpati, MD