Opening of the Superior Vena Cava

The opening of the superior vena cava (ostium venae cavae superioris, pna; synonym: the mouth of the superior vena cava) is the opening through which the superior vena cava flows into the right atrium of the heart.

The superior vena cava collects venous blood from the upper half of the body and transports it to the right atrium. When the superior vena cava reaches the heart, it passes through an opening in the wall of the right atrium called the foramen of the superior vena cava.

This is an elliptical opening measuring approximately 3 x 2.5 cm. It has no valves and is located in the anterosuperior portion of the wall of the right atrium near the junction of the superior vena cava into the atrium.

The opening of the superior vena cava plays an important role in normal hemodynamics, allowing venous blood from the upper half of the body to flow freely into the right atrium for further transport to the right ventricle and pulmonary artery.



The opening of the superior vena cava (ostium venae cavae superioris) is an anatomical formation that is located on the inner surface of the chest at the junction of the right and left halves of the diaphragm. The opening of the superior vena cava provides communication between the venous system of the lungs and the superior vena cava, which is one of the tributaries of the venous system of the heart.

The superior vena cava is one of the largest veins in the human body and collects blood from the head, neck, upper torso, and upper extremities. The opening of the superior vena cava is located at the level of the fifth rib and is a small oval or round defect in the diaphragm. The hole has a diameter of about 1.5-2 cm and is surrounded by muscle fibers of the diaphragm, which ensure its closure.

The opening of the superior vena cava plays an important role in the normal functioning of the body's venous system. Through it, blood is exchanged between the superior and inferior vena cava, as well as between the venous systems of the lungs and heart. Malfunction of the opening of the superior vena cava can lead to various diseases, such as thrombosis, thromboembolism, congestive heart failure and others.

Various imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging, are used to diagnose and treat diseases associated with the opening of the superior vena cava. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the hole's malfunction.

In general, the opening of the superior vena cava is an important anatomical formation that plays an important role in the functioning of the venous system of the human body. Disruption of its functioning can lead to various diseases and requires timely diagnosis and treatment.