Suprascapular vein

Suprascapular vein is a vein that drains the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, and joins the cervical plexus to form the external jugular vein. The term "suprascapular" is derived from the Latin words "supra," meaning above, and "scapula," referring to the shoulder blade.

Anatomy

The suprascapular vein begins at the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, located in the upper back. It then travels across the scapula, or shoulder blade, and joins the cervical plexus, a network of nerves that originate from the cervical region of the spinal cord. The suprascapular vein and the transverse cervical vein combine to form the external jugular vein, which drains blood from the head and neck back to the heart.

Function

The primary function of the suprascapular vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles. These muscles are part of the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that provide stability and movement to the shoulder joint. The suprascapular vein also plays a role in draining blood from the scapular region and the upper part of the shoulder.

Clinical significance

Injury or compression of the suprascapular vein can lead to suprascapular vein syndrome, a condition characterized by shoulder pain and weakness. This condition is often caused by repetitive overhead activities, such as throwing or swimming, and can be treated with physical therapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.

See also

• Suprascapular artery
• Suprascapular nerve
• Vein
• Rotator cuff

References

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