Deep cerebral vein

Deep Cerebral Veins

Deep cerebral veins. (Image from Gray's Anatomy)

The Deep Cerebral Veins are a group of veins located within the brain that are responsible for draining blood from the deep structures of the brain. They are part of the cerebral venous system, which is a vital component of the circulatory system in the brain.

Structure

The deep cerebral veins include the internal cerebral veins, the basal veins, and the great cerebral vein. These veins drain blood from the thalamus, hypothalamus, basal ganglia, and internal capsule.

Internal Cerebral Veins

The internal cerebral veins are formed by the union of the thalamostriate vein and the choroid vein. They run backward and unite to form the great cerebral vein.

Basal Veins

The basal veins are formed by the union of several small veins from the frontal lobe, temporal lobe, and insula. They run backward and join the great cerebral vein.

Great Cerebral Vein

The great cerebral vein, also known as the vein of Galen, is formed by the union of the internal cerebral veins. It receives the basal veins and drains into the straight sinus.

Function

The deep cerebral veins drain deoxygenated blood from the deep structures of the brain and carry it to the dural venous sinuses, from where it is returned to the heart.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities or blockages in the deep cerebral veins can lead to conditions such as deep cerebral vein thrombosis, which can cause stroke or hemorrhage.

See Also

• Cerebral venous system
• Vein of Galen
• Thalamostriate vein
• Choroid vein