What are the vena cavae?
- Veins are vessels that bring blood to the heart. The vena cavae are the two largest veins in the body. They carry de-oxygenated blood from various regions of the body to the right atrium. The superior vena cava is formed by the joining of the brachiocephalic veins. The inferior vena cavae is formed by the joining of the common iliac veins.
Function:
- Superior Vena Cava: Brings de-oxygenated blood from the head, neck, arm and chest regions of the body to the right atrium.
- Inferior Vena Cava: Brings de-oxygenated blood from the lower body regions to the right atrium.
