Paraumbilical vein

Paraumbilical vein is a small vein that carries blood from the navel (umbilicus) towards the liver. It is a remnant of the umbilical vein that functioned during fetal development. In adults, the paraumbilical vein can reopen and enlarge in certain conditions, such as liver cirrhosis.

Anatomy

The paraumbilical vein originates from the navel and ascends towards the liver within the falciform ligament, a thin band of tissue that connects the front of the liver to the anterior abdominal wall. It drains into the portal vein, which carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver.

Function

In the fetus, the umbilical vein carries oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetus. After birth, this vein closes off and becomes the paraumbilical vein. In adults, the paraumbilical vein is usually obliterated and does not carry blood. However, it can reopen and become functional in certain conditions.

Clinical significance

In liver cirrhosis, the blood flow through the liver can be obstructed, leading to increased pressure in the portal vein, a condition known as portal hypertension. This can cause the paraumbilical vein to reopen and enlarge, forming a caput medusae, a network of dilated veins around the navel. This is a sign of severe liver disease and can lead to complications such as variceal bleeding.

See also

• Umbilical vein
• Portal vein
• Liver cirrhosis
• Portal hypertension
• Caput medusae

Paraumbilical vein Resources
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