External jugular vein
Vena jugularis externa
Also known as: EJV
The external jugular vein is a superficial neck vein. It forms near the angle of the mandible, crosses sternocleidomastoid obliquely beneath platysma and drains into the subclavian vein.
Overview
The vein forms behind the angle of the mandible, in or just below the parotid gland, where the posterior auricular vein joins the posterior division of the retromandibular vein. It runs obliquely down and backward across the surface of sternocleidomastoid, just beneath platysma. It pierces the deep fascia in the posterior triangle about 2–3 cm above the clavicle and ends in the subclavian vein, lateral to the internal jugular vein.
It is easy to see when venous pressure is high or when a person strains or lies flat. However, valves near its end and kinking where it pierces the fascia make it less reliable than the internal jugular vein for judging central venous pressure.
Anatomy
- Tributaries
The posterior external jugular, transverse cervical, suprascapular and anterior jugular veins.
Function
- Drains the scalp, the side of the face and the superficial structures of the neck.
Clinical significance
Emergency venous access
The external jugular vein can be cannulated in an emergency when peripheral veins cannot be found. Tilting the patient head-down distends it.
Air embolism
Where the vein pierces the deep fascia, the fascia holds it open. If the vein is cut at this point it cannot collapse, so air can be drawn in when the patient breathes in.
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Cardiovascular System sources. For education only; not medical advice.