Subclavian vein
The subclavian vein is a paired large vein, one on either side of the body, that is responsible for draining blood from the upper extremities, allowing this blood to return to the heart. The left subclavian vein plays a key role in the absorption of lipids, by allowing products that have been carried by lymph in the thoracic duct to enter the bloodstream. The diameter of the subclavian veins is approximately 1–2 cm, depending on the individual.
| Subclavian vein | |
|---|---|
The thyroid gland and its relations. (Right subclavian vein visible at bottom left, left subclavian vein visible at bottom right.) | |
Diagram showing completion of development of the parietal veins. (Subclavian vein labeled at right, third from top.) | |
| Details | |
| Source | axillary vein, external jugular vein |
| Drains to | brachiocephalic vein |
| Artery | subclavian artery |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | vena subclavia |
| MeSH | D013350 |
| TA98 | A12.3.08.002 |
| TA2 | 4953 |
| FMA | 4725 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
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