Common facial vein

Common Facial Vein

The veins of the face, showing the Common Facial Vein.

The Common Facial Vein is a significant vein in the human anatomy that drains blood from the face. It is formed by the union of the superficial temporal vein and the maxillary vein, and it empties into the internal jugular vein.

Structure

The Common Facial Vein begins at the side of the face, near the angle of the mandible, and runs downward, near the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, to drain into the internal jugular vein. It is typically located superficial to the facial artery.

Function

The primary function of the Common Facial Vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the facial structures and return it to the heart. It also plays a role in the venous drainage of the scalp, forehead, and parts of the neck.

Clinical significance

Due to its location, the Common Facial Vein can be affected by various medical conditions, including facial vein thrombosis and facial vein varicosities. It is also a potential site for venipuncture in certain medical procedures.

See also

• Facial vein
• Internal jugular vein
• Superficial temporal vein
• Maxillary vein

External links

• Common Facial Vein at AnatomyExpert