left superior vena cava
Last reviewed 01/2018
A left superior vena cava is the result of the following embryological sequence:
- obliteration of the right common cardinal vein
- obliteration of the proximal part of the right anterior cardinal vein
- persistence of the left anterior cardinal vein
The left anterior cardinal vein forms the left-sided vena cava. It drains into the coronary sinus. It is drained into by a communication from the distal part of the right anterior cardinal vein that forms the right brachiocephalic vein. The latter drains blood from the right side of the head and neck.