Iliac vein

Iliac vein refers to one of three veins in the pelvic region that return deoxygenated blood from the lower extremities back to the heart. The three veins are the common iliac vein, the internal iliac vein, and the external iliac vein.

Common Iliac Vein

The common iliac vein is formed by the union of the external and internal iliac veins. It is located on the right side of the body and is responsible for draining blood from the lower half of the body back to the heart.

Internal Iliac Vein

The internal iliac vein drains blood from the pelvic organs and the gluteal region. It is shorter and wider than the external iliac vein.

External Iliac Vein

The external iliac vein is responsible for draining blood from the lower limb. It runs along the brim of the pelvis and becomes the femoral vein in the thigh.

Clinical Significance

The iliac veins, particularly the left common iliac vein, are susceptible to the formation of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) due to their location and the large volume of blood that passes through them. DVT can lead to serious complications such as pulmonary embolism.

See Also

• Vein
• Deep Vein Thrombosis
• Pulmonary Embolism