Lingual vein

Lingual Vein

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The lingual veins.

The lingual vein is a blood vessel located in the human mouth. It is responsible for draining blood from the tongue and is closely associated with the lingual artery and lingual nerve.

Structure

The lingual vein originates from the venous plexus on the surface of the tongue. It runs along the underside of the tongue, close to the lingual artery and lingual nerve. The vein then drains into the internal jugular vein.

Function

The primary function of the lingual vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the tongue and transport it back to the heart. This is an essential part of the body's circulatory system.

Clinical significance

Due to its location, the lingual vein can be affected by various oral health conditions, such as tongue cancer or oral lichen planus. It can also be used as a site for venipuncture in certain medical procedures.

See also

• Lingual artery
• Lingual nerve
• Venous system