Esophageal veins

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Esophageal vein)

Esophageal veins are small veins that drain blood from the esophagus and empty into the azygos vein on the right side and the hemiazygos vein on the left side. They are part of the venous system and play a crucial role in the circulation of blood in the body.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The esophageal veins are located in the esophagus, a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. These veins are responsible for draining blood from the esophagus and transporting it to the azygos vein on the right side and the hemiazygos vein on the left side.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the esophageal veins is to drain blood from the esophagus. This is an important part of the body's circulatory system, as it helps to ensure that blood is efficiently circulated throughout the body.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

In certain medical conditions, such as portal hypertension, the esophageal veins can become enlarged and form esophageal varices. These varices are prone to bleeding and can be life-threatening. Treatment options for esophageal varices include endoscopic band ligation and sclerotherapy.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Esophageal veins Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD