Brachiocephalic vein
The left and right brachiocephalic veins (previously called innominate veins) are major veins in the upper chest, formed by the union of the ipsilateral internal jugular vein and subclavian vein (the so-called venous angle)[1] behind the sternoclavicular joint.[2] The left brachiocephalic vein is more than twice the length of the right brachiocephalic vein.[3]
Brachiocephalic vein
vena brachiocephalica
vena anonyma
These veins merge to form the superior vena cava, a great vessel, posterior to the junction of the first costal cartilage with the manubrium of the sternum.[3]
The brachiocephalic veins are the major veins returning blood to the superior vena cava.[3]
Embryological origin[edit]
The left brachiocephalic vein develops from the anastomosis between the left and right anterior cardinal veins when the caudal segment of the left anterior cardinal vein degenerates.
Right and left brachiocephalic vein
The brachiocephalic veins, superior vena cava, inferior vena cava, azygos vein and their tributaries.
