Jugular veins

Major veins that drain blood from the head and neck region back to the heart.

The jugular veins are a pair of large veins located in the neck, responsible for carrying deoxygenated blood from the brain, face, and neck back to the heart. They include the internal jugular vein, which drains blood from the brain and superficial parts of the face and neck, and the external jugular vein, which collects blood from the outer structures of the head.

Terminologia Anatomica

vena jugularis

System

Circulatory system

Function

The primary function of the jugular veins is to facilitate venous return, ensuring that deoxygenated blood is efficiently transported from the head back to the heart. The internal jugular vein plays a crucial role in draining blood from critical areas, including the brain, which is essential for maintaining proper intracranial pressure and metabolic processes. This drainage is vital for the prevention of congestion and swelling, especially after physical exertion or in conditions that may lead to increased intracranial pressure. Furthermore, the external jugular vein aids in draining blood from regions such as the face, scalp, and neck, ensuring proper removal of waste products from tissues in these areas, thereby maintaining general health.

Location

The jugular veins are strategically situated on either side of the neck. The internal jugular vein runs deep to the sternocleidomastoid muscle and is located within the carotid sheath, alongside the common carotid artery and the vagus nerve. This positioning allows it to effectively collect blood from deeper regions of the head. In contrast, the external jugular vein lies more superficially and can be found lateral to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It descends along the side of the neck, draining the superficial structures of the face and scalp before emptying into the subclavian vein at the junction of the arm and neck region. Furthermore, the anatomical arrangement of these veins maximizes their efficiency in draining blood under various physiological conditions.

Did You Know?

The internal jugular vein is one of the largest veins in the body, with an average diameter of about 1.2 centimeters.
The jugular veins are often more pronounced during exercise or periods of increased blood flow, showcasing their vital role in venous return.
In certain medical procedures, such as central venous catheterization, the internal jugular vein is commonly used due to its accessibility and size.