Epigastric vein

Epigastric vein

The epigastric vein and its surrounding structures. (Image from Gray's Anatomy)

The epigastric vein is a blood vessel that drains the anterior abdominal wall. It is a paired vein, with one located on each side of the body. The epigastric vein is an important component of the venous system, which returns deoxygenated blood to the heart.

Structure

The epigastric vein originates from the umbilical vein, and runs superiorly on the anterior abdominal wall. It is located superficial to the rectus abdominis muscle, and runs parallel to the linea alba. The vein drains into the external iliac vein.

Function

The primary function of the epigastric vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the anterior abdominal wall and return it to the heart. It also plays a role in the collateral circulation, which is a network of tiny blood vessels that open up when a main vessel is blocked.

Clinical significance

The epigastric vein is often used as a landmark in surgical procedures involving the anterior abdominal wall. It can also be involved in conditions such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis.

See also

• Superficial vein
• Deep vein
• Venous system