Veins of the thorax

This tutorial explores the veins of the thorax, focusing on the superior vena cava, tracheal veins, azygous venous system, pulmonary veins, esophageal veins, internal thoracic veins, cardiac veins, and superior intercostal veins. It highlights the anatomy, function, and interconnections of these veins, emphasizing the unique roles of pulmonary veins in carrying oxygenated blood and the clinical significance of esophageal veins in portal hypertension.

What is the primary function of the superior vena cava?

• To drain the lower limbs

• To supply oxygenated blood to the heart

• To carry deoxygenated blood to the lungs

• To drain the head, neck, upper limb, and thorax

Which vein is part of the azygous venous system and drains the superior left hemithorax?

• Accessory hemiazygos vein

• Hemiazygos vein

• Superior vena cava

• Inferior vena cava

Where does the azygos vein eventually drain?

• Into the pulmonary artery

• Into the left atrium

• Into the superior vena cava

• Into the inferior vena cava

What is unique about the pulmonary veins compared to other veins?

• They supply blood to the liver

• They drain the lower limbs

• They carry oxygenated blood

• They carry deoxygenated blood

Which veins drain the esophagus and can be involved in portal hypertension?

• Tracheal veins

• Pulmonary veins

• Coronary veins

• Esophageal veins

What are the Vini Comediantes?

• A type of lymphatic vessel

• Paired veins accompanying an artery

• A type of cardiac muscle

• A part of the pulmonary system

Which cardiac vein is the largest and drains the anterior aspect of the heart?

• Middle cardiac vein

• Small cardiac vein

• Great cardiac vein

• Coronary sinus

Into which vein does the right superior intercostal vein open directly?

• Azygous vein

• Pulmonary vein

• Left brachiocephalic vein

• Inferior vena cava

What is the role of the coronary sinus?

• To connect the left and right atria

• To supply blood to the lungs

• To drain blood from the heart into the right atrium

• To carry oxygenated blood to the brain

Which veins drain the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th intercostal spaces?

• Tracheal veins

• Esophageal veins

• Superior intercostal veins

• Pulmonary veins