The supreme intercostal vein (highest intercostal vein) is a paired vein that drains the first
intercostal space
The intercostal space (ICS) is the anatomic space between two ribs (Lat. costa). Since there are 12 ribs on each side, there are 11 intercostal spaces, each numbered for the rib superior to it.
Structures in intercostal space
* several kind ...
on its corresponding side.
It usually drains into the
brachiocephalic vein.
Instant Anatomy - Thorax - Vessels - Veins - Upper intercostal
/ref> Alternatively, it drains into the superior intercostal vein, or the vertebral vein of its corresponding side.
Clinical significance
This vein does not have valves, this is an important point when it comes to spread of cancerous secondaries.
Additional images
File:Gray480.png, Diagram showing completion of development of the parietal veins.
See also
* superior intercostal vein
* posterior intercostal vein
The posterior intercostal veins are veins that drain the intercostal spaces posteriorly. They run with their corresponding posterior intercostal artery on the underside of the rib, the vein superior to the artery. Each vein also gives off a dorsa ...
* azygos vein
The azygos vein is a vein running up the right side of the thoracic vertebral column draining itself towards the superior vena cava. It connects the systems of superior vena cava and inferior vena cava and can provide an alternative path for blo ...
References
Veins of the torso
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