The venous drainage of the thyroid gland is provided by three veins - superior thyroid vein, middle thyroid vein and inferior thyroid vein. All mentioned veins usually are paired vessels. However, variations of a single vein instead of a pair are also possible. Overall, all thyroid veins emerge from a network of veins located on the surfaces of the thyroid gland.

The superior thyroid vein collects venous blood mainly from the upper part of the gland and drains into the internal jugular vein.
The middle thyroid vein originates from the inferolateral part of the gland and also drains into the internal jugular vein.
And finally, the inferior thyroid vein collects venous blood from the lower aspect of the gland. The right inferior thyroid vein and left inferior thyroid vein flow into their respective brachiocephalic veins (Read more!). Some variations are possible. Sometimes the left inferior thyroid vein can flow directly into the superior vena cava. Additionally, both inferior thyroid veins may unite and form one common trunk that further drains into the right brachiocephalic vein or left brachiocephalic vein.

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Venous drainage of thyroid gland