
Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Right lymphatic duct
Introduction
The right lymphatic duct, about 1.25 cm. in length, courses along the medial border of the Scalenus anterior at the root of the neck. In most cases it ends in the right subclavian vein, at its angle of junction with the right internal jugular vein, although the termination can be variable.
Its orifice is guarded by two semilunar valves, which prevent the passage of venous blood into the duct.
Drainage
Drainage
The right duct drains lymph fluid from:
- the upper right section of the trunk, (right thoracic cavity, via the right bronchomediastinal trunk),
- the right arm (via the right subclavian trunk),
- and right side of the head and neck (via the right jugular trunk).
All other sections of the human body are drained by the thoracic duct.
Additional images
Additional images
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Deep lymph nodes and vessels of the thorax and abdomen (diagrammatic).
References
References
- ↑ JE Skandalakis. Surgical Anatomy: The Embryologic And Anatomic Basis Of Modern Surgery (2004).
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

