Auricular vein

Auricular Vein

The veins of the right auricula. (Auricular veins not labeled, but region is visible.)

The Auricular Vein is a vein that drains the auricle of the ear. It is a part of the human circulatory system and plays a crucial role in the venous drainage of the ear.

Anatomy

The auricular vein is divided into two main branches: the anterior auricular veins and the posterior auricular vein. The anterior auricular veins drain the front of the auricle, while the posterior auricular vein drains the back of the auricle and the adjoining part of the scalp.

Anterior Auricular Veins

The anterior auricular veins are a group of small veins which drain the front of the auricle. They join to form a single vein, which opens into the superficial temporal vein.

Posterior Auricular Vein

The posterior auricular vein arises from a plexus on the temporal part of the auricle and the adjoining part of the scalp. It descends behind the ear, then curves downward and forward to join the external jugular vein.

Clinical Significance

The auricular vein, like other veins in the body, can be affected by various conditions such as thrombosis and varicose veins. Knowledge of the anatomy of the auricular vein is important in medical procedures involving the ear, such as ear surgery and ear piercing.

See Also

• Veins of the head and neck
• Human circulatory system
• Ear anatomy