Gastroepiploic vein

Gastroepiploic vein

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

The Gastroepiploic vein is a blood vessel that drains blood from the stomach and the greater omentum, a large apron-like fold of visceral peritoneum that hangs down from the stomach. It is part of the portal venous system, which carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver.

Structure

The gastroepiploic vein is formed by the union of several smaller veins that drain the greater curvature of the stomach and the greater omentum. It runs along the greater curvature, usually accompanying the gastroepiploic artery. The right gastroepiploic vein drains into the superior mesenteric vein, while the left gastroepiploic vein drains into the splenic vein.

Function

The gastroepiploic vein carries deoxygenated blood and nutrients absorbed from the stomach and greater omentum to the liver. This is part of the hepatic portal system, which allows the liver to process and detoxify substances before they reach the rest of the body.

Clinical significance

The gastroepiploic vein may be involved in several medical conditions, including gastric varices, portal hypertension, and gastrointestinal bleeding. It may also be used in surgical procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting.

See also

• Portal vein
• Hepatic portal system
• Gastroepiploic artery