The superior thyroid vein is a vein of the anterior neck. It drains the superior portion of the thyroid gland and surrounding structures. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The superior thyroid vein arises from a venous plexus on the anterior surface of the thyroid gland, near its superior pole. It ascends superomedially from the gland, running alongside the superior thyroid artery. It passes deep to the infrahyoid muscles and travels towards the internal jugular vein, usually draining directly into it near the level of the carotid bifurcation (although it may instead join the common facial vein before reaching the internal jugular). Along its course, the vein receives tributaries from the superior laryngeal vein, as well as small veins from the infrahyoid muscles and upper larynx. It also communicates with the middle and inferior thyroid veins, forming part of the interconnected venous drainage network of the thyroid gland. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 1The superior thyroid vein drains the upper portion of the thyroid gland Drainage The superior thyroid vein drains venous blood from the upper portion of the thyroid gland, the upper larynx, and nearby infrahyoid muscles. Rate This Article