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.

Type Vessel
Body System Cardiovascular
Body Region Heart Region
Latin Name Vena cava superior
FMA ID 4720

Function

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.

Clinical Significance

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Superior vena cava?
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.
What is the function of the Superior vena cava?
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.
What body system is the Superior vena cava part of?
The Superior vena cava is part of the Cardiovascular.
What conditions affect the Superior vena cava?
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.
Where is the Superior vena cava located?
The Superior vena cava is located in the Heart Region region of the body.

Related Structures

abdominal aorta abdominal part of aorta abdominal aorta artery abdominal artery Aorta Aorta aortic body aortic bodies arterial blood vessel arterial system arterial system endothelium arterial system smooth muscle

Medical Disclaimer

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