# What is the superior vena cava?

The large upper-body vein is called the superior vena cava. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as a large vein that drains blood from the head, neck, arms, and upper chest.

## What it means

- A large vein that drains blood from the head, neck, arms, and upper chest.
- Formed by the union of the two brachiocephalic veins.
- Empties into the right atrium of the heart.

## Action steps

1. In the upper right of the chest, behind the sternum.
2. Passes downward to enter the right atrium.
3. Lies alongside the ascending aorta.

## Sources

- [Gray's Anatomy of the Human Body (1918)](https://www.bartleby.com/107/)

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