Emissary veins passing through the foramen ovale, jugular foramen, foramen lacerum, and hypoglossal canal. Because the emissary veins are valveless, they are an important part in selective brain cooling through bidirectional flow of cooler blood from the evaporating surface of the head. In general, blood flow is from external to internal but the flow can be altered by increased intracranial pressure. A type of emissary vein goes through the sphenoidal emissary foramen inferior to the zygomatic arch with the cavernous sinus on the inside of the skull. This is an important route for spread of infection because cranial nerve VI and the
Head and Neck Cancer Alliance Head and Neck Cancer Alliance The Head and Neck Cancer Alliance (HNCA) is a non-profit organization that works with health professionals and organizations, celebrities and survivors to enhance the overall effort in prevention, treatment, and detection of cancers of the head and neck region. The Head and Neck Cancer Alliance was established in 2008. Formerly the Yul Brynner Head and Neck Cancer Foundation, HNCA activities include: • Providing support to head and neck cancer patients throughout the year • Supporting ongoing research in head and neck oncology • Educating children and adults in the disease process, treatment and prevention of