[3] These veins merge to form the superior vena cava, a great vessel, posterior to the junction of the first costal cartilage with the manubrium of the sternum.

[3] The brachiocephalic veins are the major veins returning blood to the superior vena cava.

In addition the left vein receives drainage from the following tributaries: The right brachiocephalic vein is about 2.5cm long.

It receives the following tributaries: The left brachiocephalic vein develops from the anastomosis between the left and right anterior cardinal veins when the caudal segment of the left anterior cardinal vein degenerates.

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