Inferior vena cava
Inferior vena cava (IVC) is the largest vein in the human body. It carries deoxygenated blood from the lower half of the body back to the heart. The IVC is formed by the joining of the left and right common iliac veins and ends in the right atrium of the heart.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The IVC is a large, valveless, venous trunk that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower and middle body into the heart. It is formed by the union of the right and left common iliac veins, usually at the level of the fifth lumbar vertebra.
Function[edit | edit source]
The IVC returns deoxygenated blood from the circulatory system back to the heart. The blood is then pumped by the heart to the lungs for oxygenation before being returned to the systemic circulation.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
The IVC is a critical structure in the circulatory system and its dysfunction can lead to significant medical conditions. These include deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and inferior vena cava syndrome (IVCS).
See also[edit | edit source]
- Superior vena cava
- Heart
- Circulatory system
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Pulmonary embolism
- Inferior vena cava syndrome
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
