right lymphatic duct

right lymphatic duct

n.

One of the two terminal lymphatic vessels, formed by the union of the right jugular lymphatic vessel and vessels from the lymph nodes of the right upper extremity, thoracic wall, and both lungs; lying on the right side of the root of the neck and emptying into the right brachiocephalic vein. Also called right thoracic duct.

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right lymphatic duct,

a vessel that conveys lymph from the right upper quadrant of the body into the bloodstream in the neck at the junction of the right internal jugular and the right subclavian veins. About 1.25 cm long, the duct courses over the medial border of the scalenus anterior. At its orifice are two semilunar valves that prevent venous blood from flowing backward into the duct. Lymph drains into the right lymphatic duct from numerous capillaries and vessels and from three lymphatic trunks in the right quadrant. Compare thoracic duct. See also lymphatic system.