Accessory hemiazygos vein (Vena hemiazygos accessoria)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
Descends in the posterior mediastinum on the left side of the vertebral column draining the 4th through 8th intercostal spaces, crossing T8 to join the azygos vein.
Clinical notes
Forms an important cavocaval collateral channel, becoming markedly dilated in superior vena cava obstruction or thoracic venous thrombosis.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Accessory hemiazygos vein?
Descends in the posterior mediastinum on the left side of the vertebral column draining the 4th through 8th intercostal spaces, crossing T8 to join the azygos vein.
Why is the Accessory hemiazygos vein clinically important?
Forms an important cavocaval collateral channel, becoming markedly dilated in superior vena cava obstruction or thoracic venous thrombosis.
Source & license
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