What is the function of the subclavian vein?

The subclavian vein is one of two veins on either side of the body whose purpose is to deliver blood from the arms to the heart. It is connected internally to the jugular vein on one end; the other end forms the brachiocephalic vein on respective sectors of the anatomy.

The subclavian veins are typically 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter, and they are located in what is referred to as the omoclavicular or subclavian triangle. This is a region that consists of the collar bone and the sternocleidomastoid and omohyoid muscles. The veins connect with a series of other veins that return blood from the lower extremities.