Superior vena cava
Vena cava superior
A short, wide vessel approximately 7 cm long, formed by the junction of the right and left brachiocephalic veins posterior to the first right costal cartilage. It descends through the superior mediastinum, receiving the azygos vein, and empties into the right atrium.
| Tipo | Vessel |
| Sistema corporal | Cardiovascular |
| Región corporal | Heart Region |
| Nombre latino | Vena cava superior |
| FMA ID | 4720 |
Función
Returns deoxygenated blood from the head, neck, upper limbs, and thorax to the right atrium of the heart. Formed by the confluence of the right and left brachiocephalic veins.
Significado clínico
Superior vena cava syndrome results from compression or obstruction (often by lung cancer or lymphoma), causing facial and upper limb swelling. Central venous catheters are placed via the subclavian or internal jugular veins into the SVC.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is the Superior vena cava?
What is the function of the Superior vena cava?
What body system is the Superior vena cava part of?
What conditions affect the Superior vena cava?
Where is the Superior vena cava located?
Estructuras relacionadas
Aviso médico
Este contenido es solo para fines educativos e informativos. No pretende ser un sustituto del consejo médico profesional, diagnóstico o tratamiento. Siempre busque el consejo de su médico u otro proveedor de salud calificado ante cualquier pregunta que pueda tener sobre una condición médica. Nunca ignore el consejo médico profesional ni demore en buscarlo debido a algo que haya leído en este sitio web.