Anterior Jugular Vein

vena jugularis anterior

The anterior jugular vein descends in the midline or paramedian neck from the chin, passing superficial to the strap muscles, and enters the suprasternal space to drain into the external jugular or subclavian vein. A connecting transverse jugular vein often crosses the midline in the suprasternal space connecting the two anterior jugular veins. The vein is variable in size and position.

Region: Neck

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The anterior jugular vein and the transverse jugular arch in the suprasternal space are the main vascular hazard during emergency cricothyrotomy and tracheostomy, where midline incision through the pretracheal fascia may encounter these veins. Division and ligation are straightforward. In low anterior neck dissection and thyroid surgery, the anterior jugular veins are routinely divided. Their calibre may be massively enlarged in patients with superior vena cava obstruction as collateral drainage.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Anterior Jugular Bleeding in Tracheostomy

Midline tracheostomy incision encounters the anterior jugular veins or the transverse jugular arch in the suprasternal space, requiring haemostatic control by ligation or bipolar coagulation before tracheal access; uncontrolled anterior jugular bleeding obscures the operative field and risks air embolism.