The external jugular vein is a superficial vein of the neck that is formed by the union of the retromandibular vein and posterior auricular vein.

The external jugular vein originates from the angle of the mandible, descends to the clavicle, reaching the root of the neck, then penetrates the deep cervical fascia and drains into the subclavian vein.

The main tributaries of the external jugular vein are:

• Anterior jugular vein (occasionally)
• Posterior external jugular vein
• Transverse cervical vein
• Suprascapular vein
   

The external jugular vein collects blood from the scalp, face, neck and superficial muscles of the back.