Vena jugularis

Vena Jugularis refers to the jugular veins that carry deoxygenated blood from the head back to the heart through the superior vena cava. There are two sets of jugular veins: the internal jugular vein and the external jugular vein.

Anatomy

The internal jugular vein is larger and deeper within the neck, running down the side of the neck inside the carotid sheath. It originates in the jugular foramen at the base of the skull and descends vertically down the neck, alongside the common carotid artery. It drains blood from the brain, face and neck.

The external jugular vein is smaller and more superficial, running diagonally down the neck, outside the carotid sheath. It drains blood from the scalp and parts of the face.

Clinical Significance

The jugular veins, particularly the internal jugular vein, are often used in medicine as a central line for the administration of medication, fluids, or to measure central venous pressure. Abnormalities in the jugular veins, such as jugular vein distention, can be a sign of heart failure or other serious medical conditions.

See Also

• Vein
• Jugular vein distention
• Central venous catheter