innominate vein

anatomy

Also known as: brachiocephalic vein

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

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The innominate vein, also known as the brachiocephalic vein, is a major vein in the neck. There are two such veins, one on each side of the neck. These veins collect blood from the head and neck. They then merge together to form the superior vena cava, which is a large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the upper body to the heart. The term "innominate" means "nameless," suggesting it was once considered a vein without a specific name.12

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vena cava
Superior vena cava.
The brachiocephalic veins, as their name implies—being formed from the Greek words for “arm” and “head”—carry blood that has been collected from the head and neck and the arms; they also drain blood from much of the upper half of the body, including the upper part…
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The brachiocephalic veins, as their name implies—being formed from the Greek words for “arm” and “head”—carry blood that has been collected from the head and neck and the arms; they also drain blood from much of the upper half of the body, including the upper part…
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human cardiovascular system
Superior vena cava and its tributaries
…all converge to form the innominate vein. The right and left innominate veins terminate in the superior vena cava, which opens into the upper posterior portion of the right atrium.
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…all converge to form the innominate vein. The right and left innominate veins terminate in the superior vena cava, which opens into the upper posterior portion of the right atrium.
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