Reference Section
| Vessel | Formed By | Drains Into | Effects of Obstruction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Brachiocephalic Vein | Union of R. Subclavian & R. Internal Jugular | Superior Vena Cava (SVC) | Unilateral (Right) facial and arm swelling; engorgement of R. external jugular. |
| Superior Vena Cava (SVC) | Union of R. & L. Brachiocephalic Veins | Right Atrium | Bilateral facial and arm swelling; "Pemberton sign"; respiratory distress. |
| Subclavian Vein | Continuation of Axillary Vein | Brachiocephalic Vein | Unilateral arm swelling only; no facial involvement. |
| Internal Jugular Vein | Dural venous sinuses | Brachiocephalic Vein | Unilateral facial/neck swelling only; no arm involvement. |
Mnemonics & Tips
- Mnemonic: Brachiocephalic is Brutal on just one side; SVC is Symmetric and Very Congested on both.
- Tip: The Right Lymphatic Duct drains the right upper extremity, the right face and neck, the right hemithorax, and the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.
- Anatomy Tip: The right external jugular vein drains into the right subclavian vein.
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