Definition
Vena azygos is the Latin term for the azygos vein, a major vein in the chest that drains blood from the back and chest wall into the superior vena cava. Positioned on the right side of the vertebral column, it provides an alternative pathway for blood to return to the heart should the inferior vena cava be blocked. Think of it as a vital detour in the circulatory system. The vena azygos connects to veins like the intercostales.