Main Model
Superior vena cava
The superior vena cava (SVC) returns blood from all structures superior to the diaphragm, except the lungs
and heart. It passes inferiorly and ends at the level of the 3rd costal
cartilage, where it enters the right atrium of the heart. The SVC lies in the
right side of the superior mediastinum, anterolateral to the trachea and posterolateral
to the ascending aorta. The right phrenic nerve lies between the SVC and the mediastinal
pleura. The terminal half of the SVC is in the middle mediastinum, where it lies
beside the ascending aorta and forms the posterior boundary of the transverse
pericardial sinus.