Veins of the head and neck

Veins of the Head and Neck

The veins of the head and neck are a network of blood vessels that drain deoxygenated blood and waste products from the brain, face, and neck. These veins are part of the circulatory system, which also includes the heart and arteries.

Structure

The veins of the head and neck can be divided into two main groups: the external and internal veins.

External Veins

The external veins drain the outer parts of the head and neck. They include the facial vein, which drains the face, and the external jugular vein, which drains the scalp and face.

Internal Veins

The internal veins drain the brain and the inner parts of the head and neck. They include the internal jugular vein, which is the main vein of the neck, and the cerebral veins, which drain the brain.

Function

The veins of the head and neck return deoxygenated blood from the brain, face, and neck to the heart. They also carry waste products away from these areas to be excreted by the body.

Clinical significance

Problems with the veins of the head and neck can lead to serious health conditions. For example, a thrombosis in these veins can cause a stroke. Other conditions that can affect these veins include varicose veins, phlebitis, and venous insufficiency.

See also

• Veins
• Circulatory system
• Blood vessels