The spelling of "vena azygos major" can be tricky because of its Latin origin. However, using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it becomes easier to understand. "Vena" is pronounced as "vein-uh" with the stress on the first syllable. "Azygos" is pronounced as "uh-zahy-gos" with the stress on the second syllable. Finally, "major" is pronounced as "may-jer" with the stress on the first syllable. Overall, the pronunciation of "vena azygos major" can be broken down into vee-nuh ah-zahy-gos may-jer.
Vena azygos major refers to a significant vein found within the human anatomical structure. Specifically, it represents the right-sided counterpart of the vena azygos minor. This vein is named as such due to its unique location in the body, as it runs on the right side mainly.
The vena azygos major is a large vein that plays a crucial role in facilitating blood circulation throughout the body. It is responsible for draining deoxygenated blood from the right posterior intercostal veins present within the thoracic cavity. Additionally, it receives blood from the bronchial veins, esophageal veins, and posterior mediastinal veins. The blood collected from these sources eventually flows into the superior vena cava, which transports it to the right atrium of the heart.
The vena azygos major follows a distinct course, originating from the posterior abdominal wall and ascending vertically, adjacent to the spine through the thoracic cavity. It typically receives tributaries from the ninth to eleventh posterior intercostal veins. Eventually, near the level of the fourth thoracic vertebra, it terminates by forming an arch known as the 'azygos arch' that connects with the left-sided vena azygos minor (hemiazygos vein), before entering the superior vena cava.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the vena azygos major is crucial within medical contexts, as it aids in diagnosing conditions such as thoracic tumors, thoracic trauma, and other diseases affecting the chest and abdomen.
V. azygos.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.