Hemiazygos vein (Vena hemiazygos)

Layer: Vessels

Educational content only — not medical advice.

Anatomy

A major longitudinal thoracic vein ascending in the posterior mediastinum on the left of the spine, crossing T9 to empty into the azygos vein.

Clinical notes

Prime cavocaval collateral channel between the superior and inferior vena cava; becomes engorged in vena caval obstruction and portal hypertension.

Related structures

Educational references

FAQ

What is the role of the Hemiazygos vein?

A major longitudinal thoracic vein ascending in the posterior mediastinum on the left of the spine, crossing T9 to empty into the azygos vein.

Why is the Hemiazygos vein clinically important?

Prime cavocaval collateral channel between the superior and inferior vena cava; becomes engorged in vena caval obstruction and portal hypertension.

Source & license

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