Definition of Jugular Vein

The jugular vein It is one of the great blood vessels of the body, it is located in the neck in number of four veins on each side: the internal jugular vein, the anterior jugular, the external jugular and the posterior jugular.

Internal jugular vein

The internal jugular vein is a thick venous path that reaches 1.8 to 2 cm, originates on each side at the base of the skull at the level of the Jugular Gulf, a structure that corresponds to the continuation of the lateral venous sinus that collects blood from the brain.

In the neck, this important vein descends, locating on one side of the carotid artery, locating outside it, on its way they are located behind the muscle sternocleidomastoid. Both structures constitute the most important vascular elements of the neck.

Upon reaching the level of the clavicle, each internal jugular vein joins the corresponding subclavian vein forming the brachiocephalic trunk on each side, both trunks brachiocephalic join together giving rise to the superior vena cava that carries blood from the head, neck, arms and upper part of the thorax to the atrium right.

External jugular vein

This vein runs on either side of the neck in front of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, it is a visible superficial vein.

This venous path originates on both sides of the jaw, just behind the parotid gland, by union of veins that come from the superficial part of the skull and the face. Once formed, it descends to the clavicle where it begins a deep journey until it reaches the subclavian vein on each side where it empties.

The external jugular vein receives blood from the skin of the anterior and lateral regions of the neck, as well as from the scapular area.

Anterior jugular vein

The anterior jugular vein originates under the chin, one on each side, descends superficially and just before the hole located on the sternum joins the other side forming an arc, the rest of the course goes deep to empty into the subclavian vein correspondent.

The anterior jugular veins receive blood from the thyroid gland, the muscles of the anterior neck, and the skin of the upper chest.

Posterior jugular vein

There are two jugular veins located in the back of the neck, these are located near the base of the skull in the region occipital, collect blood from the neck and flow into the brachiocephalic trunks.

Medical significance of the jugular vein

The internal jugular vein is a large blood vessel, in which accesses can be created that are frequently used for the purpose of diagnosis Y treatment.

Central venous access. Many times the internal jugular vein is used to introduce catheters, which allow the passage of medications and various fluids, in patients with difficulty locating peripheral veins or when they are very sensitive to medicine.

Measurement of parameters. In this way, devices can be located that allow monitoring parameters such as central venous pressure, saturation blood oxygen and cardiac output. This is usually carried out in critically ill patients in intensive care units.

Procedures where blood exchange is necessary. As is the case with hemodialysis, exchange transfusion or plasmapheresis.

Photos: Fotolia - Sebastian Kaulitzki / Marina_ua

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