Right brachiocephalic vein

Looks like

A large vein on each side at the base of the neck behind the breastbone; the left one is longer and crosses in front of the arteries.

What it does

Forms from the internal jugular and subclavian veins; both join to make the superior vena cava.

Keeping it well

Central lines and pacemaker leads pass through it. A swollen face and arms with widened chest veins may mean a blockage — see a doctor urgently.

Its parts

• Right subclavian vein
• Right internal thoracic vein

Related conditions

• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Clotting disorders (thrombophilia & APS)
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Varicose veins