What vein drains blood back to the heart from the head?

The jugular vein is the primary vessel responsible for draining blood from the head and neck back to the heart. This vein collects deoxygenated blood from the brain, face, and neck, transporting it to the superior vena cava, which then carries the blood to the heart.

There are two main types of jugular veins: the internal jugular vein, which drains blood from the brain, and the external jugular vein, which collects blood from the face and neck. The significance of the jugular vein lies in its essential role in ensuring that blood circulates efficiently, allowing for proper functioning of the cardiovascular system.

In contrast, the carotid vein does not exist; rather, the carotid arteries supply blood to the head. The subclavian vein primarily drains blood from the upper limbs and some regions of the neck, and while the brachial vein is involved in draining the arm, it does not serve the head region. This delineation underscores why the jugular vein is the correct answer when identifying the vessel responsible for returning blood from the head to the heart.