Meningeal veins

Meningeal veins

Illustration of the meningeal veins from Gray's Anatomy

The meningeal veins are a group of veins in the human brain that drain blood from the meninges, the protective layers of tissue that cover the brain and spinal cord. They are part of the cerebrovascular system and play a crucial role in maintaining the brain's blood supply.

Structure

The meningeal veins are located within the meninges, specifically the dura mater, the outermost layer. They are typically unpaired and do not correspond to the meningeal arteries. The veins are valveless, allowing blood to flow in either direction. They drain into the dural venous sinuses, which in turn drain into the internal jugular vein.

Function

The primary function of the meningeal veins is to drain blood from the meninges and the adjacent parts of the skull. This helps to maintain the brain's blood supply and prevent the buildup of pressure within the skull, which could potentially lead to intracranial pressure and brain damage.

Clinical significance

Damage to the meningeal veins can lead to a subdural hematoma, a potentially life-threatening condition where blood collects between the dura mater and the brain. This can be caused by trauma to the head, such as a concussion or skull fracture.

See also

• Cerebral veins
• Dural venous sinuses
• Meninges

External links

• Wikimedia Commons has media related to Meningeal veins.