Suboccipital venous plexus

Suboccipital Venous Plexus

The Suboccipital Venous Plexus is a network of veins located in the suboccipital region, which is the area at the back of the head, just below the occipital bone. This venous plexus plays a crucial role in the venous drainage of the posterior aspect of the head and neck.

Illustration of the Suboccipital Venous Plexus

Anatomy

The Suboccipital Venous Plexus is situated deep in the suboccipital triangle, a region bounded by three muscles: the Rectus capitis posterior major, the Obliquus capitis superior, and the Obliquus capitis inferior. It is closely related to the Suboccipital nerve and the Vertebral artery.

Function

The primary function of the Suboccipital Venous Plexus is to drain deoxygenated blood from the posterior part of the head and neck. It communicates with the Vertebral venous plexus and the Occipital vein, facilitating the venous return to the heart.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location and connections, the Suboccipital Venous Plexus can be involved in the spread of infections or metastases from the head and neck to the vertebral column or the brain. Understanding its anatomy is crucial in neurosurgery and radiology.

Diagram showing the connections of the Suboccipital Venous Plexus

See Also

• Venous plexus
• Suboccipital triangle
• Vertebral venous plexus