Subclavian vein

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Subclavian vein
upper extremity
Sourceaxillary vein, external jugular vein
Drains tobrachiocephalic vein
Arterysubclavian artery
Identifiers
Latinvena subclavia
MeSHD013350
TA98A12.3.08.002
TA24953
FMA4725
Anatomical terminology]

The subclavian vein is a paired large vein, one on either side of the body, that is responsible for draining blood from the upper extremities, allowing this blood to return to the heart. The left subclavian vein plays a key role in the absorption of lipids, by allowing products that have been carried by lymph in the thoracic duct to enter the bloodstream. The diameter of the subclavian veins is approximately 1–2 cm, depending on the individual.[medical citation needed]

Structure

Each subclavian vein is a continuation of the

first rib to the medial border of anterior scalene muscle.[1] From here it joins with the internal jugular vein to form the brachiocephalic vein (also known as "innominate vein"). The angle of union is termed the venous angle
.

The subclavian vein follows the

anterior scalene.[1] Thus, the subclavian vein lies anterior to the anterior scalene while the subclavian artery lies posterior to the anterior scalene (and anterior to the middle scalene).[2]

Function

The

hepatic portal vein
, and then finally to the liver. Consequently, the left subclavian vein plays a key role in the absorption of these fats and lipids.

The right lymphatic duct drains its lymph into the junction of the right internal jugular vein, and the right subclavian vein.

Clinical relevance

Central venous lines

As the subclavian vein is large, central and relatively superficial, the right subclavian vein is often used to place

central venous lines.[4][5] It is less commonly used than other approaches, such as the right internal jugular vein, due to the risk of pneumothorax, haemothorax, and puncture of the accompanying subclavian artery.[5][6]

Thoracic outlet syndrome

The subclavian vein may be blocked during thoracic outlet syndrome.[7] This can lead to arm swelling, pain, and cyanosis.[7] The cause of the thoracic outlet syndrome, whether a thrombus or external pressure, must be reversed urgently.[7]

Etymology

Sub (below), and clavian (pertaining to the clavicle).

Disorders

Paget–Schroetter disease includes the thrombosis of the subclavian veins, in this case usually caused by exercise-induced strains.

See also

Additional images

  • Peculiar ribs.
    Peculiar ribs.
  • The venæ cavæ and azygos veins, with their tributaries.
    The venæ cavæ and azygos veins, with their tributaries.
  • The thoracic and right lymphatic ducts.
    The thoracic and right lymphatic ducts.
  • The thymus of a full-term infant, exposed in situ.
    The thymus of a full-term infant, exposed in situ.
  • Subclavian vein
    Subclavian vein
  • Subclavian vein - right view
    Subclavian vein - right view
  • Subclavian vein
    Subclavian vein
  • Subclavian vein
    Subclavian vein

References

  1. ^
    ISBN 978-0-443-10373-5
    , retrieved 2020-11-20
  2. ISBN 978-1-4160-6208-0
    , retrieved 2020-11-20
  3. ^ "What is the Subclavian Vein? (with pictures)". wiseGEEK. Retrieved 2019-01-03.
  4. ISBN 978-1-4160-3786-6
    , retrieved 2020-11-20
  5. ^
    S2CID 81592410
    , retrieved 2020-11-20
  6. ISBN 978-0-323-03004-5
    , retrieved 2020-11-20
  7. ^
    ISBN 978-0-12-369515-4
    , retrieved 2020-11-20
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