Retromandibular vein

Retromandibular vein is a vein located within the parotid gland in the human body. It is formed by the union of the superficial temporal vein and maxillary vein. The retromandibular vein divides into two branches: anterior and posterior. The anterior branch joins with the facial vein to form the common facial vein, while the posterior branch joins with the posterior auricular vein to form the external jugular vein.

Structure

The retromandibular vein is formed within the substance of the parotid gland by the union of the maxillary vein and superficial temporal vein. It descends in the substance of the gland, and divides into two branches: anterior and posterior.

Anterior Branch

The anterior branch of the retromandibular vein exits the gland and joins with the facial vein to form the common facial vein, which drains into the internal jugular vein.

Posterior Branch

The posterior branch of the retromandibular vein exits the gland and joins with the posterior auricular vein to form the external jugular vein.

Function

The retromandibular vein plays a crucial role in draining blood from parts of the face and scalp. It is a significant component of the venous system of the head and neck.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location within the parotid gland, the retromandibular vein may be affected by parotid gland diseases such as parotitis and parotid gland tumors. Its proximity to the facial nerve also makes it susceptible to injury during surgical procedures involving the parotid gland.

See Also

• Veins of the head and neck
• Parotid gland
• Superficial temporal vein
• Maxillary vein
• Facial vein
• Common facial vein
• Posterior auricular vein
• External jugular vein
• Internal jugular vein

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the retromandibular vein

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the veins of the face and scalp

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  Lateral view of head anatomy detail