Corpus: External jugular vein

The external jugular vein is a superficial (epifascial) vein in the neck.

The external jugular vein forms within the parotid gland at the level of the jaw angle from the confluence of the posterior auricular vein and the retromandibular vein, and occasionally from the confluence of the posterior auricular vein and the occipital vein.

It runs caudally between the platysma and the sternocleidomastoid muscle towards the clavicle, picking up small tributary veins along its path. At the center of the clavicle, it pierces the deep cervical fascia and flows anteriorly or laterally to the anterior scalene muscle into the subclavian vein. In the upper half of its course, the external jugular vein runs parallel to the great auricular nerve. Approximately 4 cm above the clavicle, there is often an enlargement of the vein, known as the sinus, which contains a venous valve.

The external jugular vein collects venous blood from the deep parts of the face and neck.

The external jugular vein receives blood from the following veins:

• Anterior jugular vein
• Suprascapular vein
• Transverse cervical vein

Due to its superficial course, the filling of the external jugular vein is easily visible and can be a useful clinical sign. A swollen or distended external jugular vein is often indicative of congestion in the venous return to the heart, commonly associated with right-sided heart failure. This condition is referred to as jugular venous congestion.

In cases of jugular vein thrombosis, the external jugular vein may present as a hard, tender cord-like structure on the neck, which can be palpated during physical examination.