Musculophrenic veins
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Musculophrenic veins are paired vessels responsible for draining blood from the lower anterior intercostal spaces, the diaphragm, and regions of the anterior abdominal wall.[1] These veins empty into the internal thoracic veins.
Origin and course
Musculophrenic veins arise from the convergence of veins in the lower anterior intercostal spaces and the superior diaphragm. Each vein runs obliquely along the costal margin, usually draining into the internal thoracic vein near the sixth costal cartilage.[1]
Tributaries
Main tributaries include:
- Anterior intercostal veins (lower spaces)
- Diaphragmatic branches
- Veins from the anterior abdominal wall[1]
Drainage
Musculophrenic veins collect blood from:
- Lower anterior intercostal spaces
- Muscular diaphragm portions
- Adjacent anterior abdominal wall