Posterior facial vein

Posterior Facial Vein

The veins of the face, showing the posterior facial vein (labeled as 'posterior facial')

The Posterior Facial Vein is a significant vein in the human anatomy that drains blood from the facial region. It is also known as the posterior division of the retromandibular vein and is a continuation of the temporomandibular vein.

Structure

The posterior facial vein is formed by the union of the superficial temporal vein and maxillary vein behind the neck of the mandible. It runs downwards in the substance of the parotid gland, behind the ramus of the mandible, and unites with the facial vein to form the common facial vein.

Function

The posterior facial vein is responsible for draining blood from the facial region, including the scalp, forehead, eyelids, nose, cheeks, lips, and chin. It also plays a role in the venous drainage of the oral cavity and pharynx.

Clinical significance

Knowledge of the posterior facial vein is crucial in surgical procedures involving the face and neck. Its location and connections with other veins make it a potential route for the spread of infections from the facial region to the cranial cavity.

See also

• Facial vein
• Retromandibular vein
• Superficial temporal vein
• Maxillary vein

External links

• Posterior Facial Vein at AnatomyExpert