What is the facial vein and where does it drain?

The facial vein is the largest vein of the face, formed near the eye. It descends and joins the anterior division of the retromandibular vein to form the common facial vein, which ultimately drains into the internal jugular vein.

How does the facial vein connect to the cavernous sinus?

The facial vein communicates with the cavernous sinus via two routes: the superior ophthalmic vein at its origin near the eye, and the deep facial vein, which links to the pterygoid venous plexus and then to the cavernous sinus through emissary veins.

What is the 'dangerous area' of the face and why is it clinically significant?

The dangerous area includes the lower nose, upper lip, and adjacent cheek. It has valveless venous connections to the cavernous sinus, allowing infections to spread retrograde and potentially cause cavernous sinus thrombosis or meningitis.

What is the retromandibular vein and how does it divide?

The retromandibular vein is formed in the parotid gland from the superficial temporal and maxillary veins. It divides into an anterior division that joins the facial vein, and a posterior division that joins the posterior auricular vein to form the external jugular vein.

What are the tributaries of the facial vein?

The tributaries of the facial vein correspond to the branches of the facial artery, which supply blood to the same facial regions.

Why is infection in the facial area particularly dangerous?

Infections in the facial area, especially the dangerous area, can spread retrograde through valveless veins to the cavernous sinus. This can lead to serious complications like cavernous sinus thrombosis, which may result in meningitis or other intracranial issues.

Face Veins – Facial Vein & Dangerous Area