superior vena cava (SVC)

Function

• the great vein of the superior thorax, returning blood from the head & neck, upper extremities & thorax to the right atrium

Structure

• it is joined in the superior mediastinum by union of the 2 brachiocephalic veins & empties into the posterior superior aspect of the right atrium

More general terms

• vena cava

Additional terms

• superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome
• vestigial left superior vena cava (vein of Marshall)