Superior vena cava

Question 1

Function

Answer 1

Receives venous return from the upper half of the body (head, neck and upper limbs)

Question 2

Location

Answer 2

Right anterior superior mediastinum (anterior and to the right of the ascending aorta)

Question 3

Tributaries to the SVC

Answer 3

1. Right and left brachiocephalic veins

2. Azygous vein

Question 4

Brachiocephalic vein tributaries (3)

Answer 4

• Internal jugular vein
• Subclavian vein
• Internal thoracic/mammary (anterior intercostals)

Question 5

Azygous vein joins SVC

Answer 5

Behind the first intercostal space

- SVC pierces the fibrous pericardium opposite the right second costal cartilage

Question 6

Azygous vein relation to thoracic aorta and drains

Answer 6

• Immediately to the right of the descending thoracic aorta

- Drains from posterior intercostal veins

Question 7

Hemiazygous crosses and drains

Answer 7

• Crosses at T8/9

- Drains into the azygous vein