Jug Handle Tributary of Internal Jugular Vein: A Potentially Dangerous Venous Variation.

Abstract

Variations of internal jugular vein (IJV) are rare and are surgically important. Here an unreported variation of IJV is presented. Right IJV had an unusual vein joining it in the form of a "jug handle." This vein arose from the junction of IJV and common facial vein (CFV), coursed down for 3 cm and joined IJV again. The CFV was dilated. Knowledge of this rare case could be useful to craniofacial surgeons, radiologists, and anesthesiologists. It might decrease the chances of iatrogenic bleeding during head and neck surgeries and radiologic procedures.