Superior laryngeal vein

Diagram of the veins of the neck, including the superior laryngeal vein.

The superior laryngeal vein is a blood vessel that drains the larynx and is part of the venous system of the neck. It plays a crucial role in returning deoxygenated blood from the larynx to the heart.

Anatomy

The superior laryngeal vein is a tributary of the superior thyroid vein. It originates from the venous plexus of the larynx, which is a network of veins that collect blood from the laryngeal tissues. The vein travels alongside the superior laryngeal artery, which supplies oxygenated blood to the larynx.

Course

The superior laryngeal vein begins in the laryngeal region and descends to join the superior thyroid vein. It typically runs parallel to the superior laryngeal nerve, which is responsible for innervating the laryngeal muscles and mucosa.

Function

The primary function of the superior laryngeal vein is to drain blood from the larynx. This includes blood from the vocal cords, epiglottis, and other structures within the larynx. The blood collected by the superior laryngeal vein is eventually returned to the internal jugular vein, which carries it back to the heart.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the anatomy of the superior laryngeal vein is important in surgical procedures involving the neck and larynx. Injury to this vein can lead to complications such as hematoma or excessive bleeding. Additionally, the vein may be involved in conditions such as laryngeal cancer, where it can be a pathway for the spread of cancerous cells.

Related Pages

• Larynx
• Superior thyroid vein
• Superior laryngeal nerve
• Venous system