Jugular

Jugular refers to the jugular vein, a vital part of the human anatomy that carries deoxygenated blood from the head back to the heart. There are two pairs of jugular veins: the internal jugular vein and the external jugular vein.

Anatomy

The jugular veins are located on either side of the neck. The internal jugular vein runs down the inside of the neck, alongside the carotid artery, while the external jugular vein runs more superficially, down the outside of the neck.

Function

The primary function of the jugular veins is to transport deoxygenated blood from the head and neck back to the heart. This is a crucial part of the circulatory system, as it ensures that the brain and other tissues in the head and neck receive a constant supply of fresh, oxygenated blood.

Clinical significance

The jugular veins are often used in medical procedures, such as the insertion of a central venous catheter. They can also be used to measure jugular venous pressure, which can provide important information about a patient's cardiac function.

In certain medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, the jugular veins may become distended, which can be a sign of increased pressure in the right side of the heart. This is known as jugular venous distension.

See also

• Vein
• Neck
• Human anatomy

References

Jugular Resources
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