The subclavian vein is a continuation of the axillary vein. It joins the internal jugular vein to form the brachiocephalic vein behind the sternoclavicular joint.

The subclavian vein receives the thoracic duct on the left side.

The subclavian vein passes over the first rib and lies posterior to the clavicle.

The internal jugular, subclavian and brachiocephalic veins are closely related to the dome of the pleura.