Innominate vein

Innominate Vein

The innominate vein and its tributaries.

The Innominate Vein (also known as Brachiocephalic Vein) is a large blood vessel located in the upper chest region of the human body. It is formed by the union of the Internal Jugular Vein and the Subclavian Vein on each side of the body.

Structure

The innominate veins are two in number, a left and a right. They are formed behind the sternoclavicular articulations by the union of the corresponding internal jugular and subclavian veins.

Function

The innominate veins convey blood from the head, neck, upper limbs and upper part of the chest to the Superior Vena Cava, which then transports the deoxygenated blood to the heart.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location and size, the innominate vein is often involved in various medical conditions and procedures, such as Central Venous Catheterization, Venous Thrombosis, and Mediastinal Masses.

See Also

• Veins of the torso
• Superior Vena Cava
• Internal Jugular Vein
• Subclavian Vein