Pericardiacophrenic vein

Pericardiacophrenic vein

The pericardiacophrenic vein (labeled as 'Phrenic') is shown in this illustration from Gray's Anatomy.

The Pericardiacophrenic vein is a small blood vessel that drains the pericardium and the diaphragm. It is a companion vein to the pericardiacophrenic artery, and both vessels run along the lateral aspects of the mediastinum.

Structure

The pericardiacophrenic vein originates from the pericardium and the diaphragm. It ascends in the thorax, running along the phrenic nerve and the pericardiacophrenic artery. It eventually drains into the brachiocephalic vein.

Function

The primary function of the pericardiacophrenic vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the pericardium and the diaphragm. This blood is then returned to the heart via the brachiocephalic vein.

Clinical significance

Understanding the anatomy of the pericardiacophrenic vein is important in various clinical scenarios, including thoracic surgery and the diagnosis and treatment of pericardial effusion.

See also

• Pericardium
• Diaphragm (anatomy)
• Brachiocephalic vein
• Pericardiacophrenic artery