Pancreaticoduodenal veins

Pancreaticoduodenal veins are veins that drain the pancreas and the duodenum. They are part of the portal venous system, which carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver. The pancreaticoduodenal veins are divided into superior and inferior veins, which correspond to the arteries of the same name.

Etymology

The term "pancreaticoduodenal" is derived from the Greek words "pankreas" (all flesh), referring to the pancreas, and "duodenum" (twelve), referring to the first part of the small intestine. The term "vein" comes from the Latin "vena", which means "blood vessel".

Anatomy

The superior pancreaticoduodenal veins drain the head of the pancreas and the first part of the duodenum. They usually drain into the gastroduodenal vein or directly into the portal vein. The inferior pancreaticoduodenal veins drain the lower part of the head of the pancreas and the ascending part of the duodenum. They usually drain into the superior mesenteric vein.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or injury to the pancreaticoduodenal veins can lead to pancreatitis, duodenal ulcer, and gastrointestinal bleeding. They can also be involved in portal hypertension, a condition characterized by increased pressure in the portal venous system.

Related terms

• Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine (duodenum), the gallbladder and the bile duct.
• Pancreaticoduodenal artery: Arteries that supply blood to the pancreas and the duodenum.

Pancreaticoduodenal veins Resources
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