Skip to main content

Unfortunately we don't fully support your browser. If you have the option to, please upgrade to a newer version or use Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Safari 14 or newer. If you are unable to, and need support, please send us your feedback.

Elsevier
Publish with us
Vertebral Vein
Cardiovascular System

Vertebral Vein

Vena vertebralis

Read more

Quick Facts

Origin: Suboccipital triangle.

Course: Descends in the foramina transversaria of the upper six cervical vertebrae.

Tributaries: Intervertebral, anterior vertebral, and deep cervical veins.

Drainage: Vertebral column and suboccipital region.

Complete Anatomy
The world's most advanced 3D anatomy platform
Try it for Free

Origin

The vertebral vein originates from a venous plexus in the suboccipital triangle.

Course

The vertebral vein descends in the foramina transversaria of the upper six cervical vertebrae and forms a plexus around the vertebral artery. After emerging from the foramen transversarium of the sixth cervical vertebra, the vertebral vein descends anterolateral to the vertebral artery. It passes behind the internal jugular vein and anterior to the first part of the subclavian artery, before draining superoposteriorly into the brachiocephalic vein.

Tributaries

The vertebral vein receives the intervertebral, anterior vertebral, and deep cervical veins.

Structures Drained

The vertebral vein drains the muscles of the suboccipital triangle and the cervical part of the vertebral column.

Complete Anatomy

The world's most advanced 3D anatomy platform

Complete Anatomy