Vertebral vein

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Vein that drains the cervical spine

Blood vessel

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The vertebral vein is a vein that drains the cervical spine and the posterior part of the skull. It is part of the venous system and plays a crucial role in returning deoxygenated blood from the upper spinal region to the heart.

Anatomy

The vertebral vein originates from the venous plexuses of the vertebral column, which are networks of veins located within the vertebral column. These plexuses are divided into the internal and external vertebral venous plexuses. The vertebral vein primarily drains the internal vertebral venous plexus.

The vertebral vein travels alongside the vertebral artery through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae. It typically forms at the level of the sixth cervical vertebra (C6) and descends to join the brachiocephalic vein.

Tributaries

The vertebral vein receives blood from several tributaries, including:

• Internal vertebral venous plexus
• External vertebral venous plexus
• Deep cervical vein
• Occipital vein

Function

The primary function of the vertebral vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the cervical spine and the posterior part of the skull. It plays a significant role in the venous return from the upper spinal region, ensuring that blood is efficiently returned to the heart for reoxygenation.

Clinical significance

The vertebral vein can be involved in various medical conditions, such as vertebral vein thrombosis, which is a rare but serious condition where a blood clot forms within the vein. This can lead to symptoms such as neck pain, swelling, and neurological deficits.

See also

• Vertebral artery
• Cervical vertebrae
• Venous system
• Brachiocephalic vein