Internal vertebral venous plexuses

Internal vertebral venous plexuses

The internal vertebral venous plexuses are a network of veins located within the vertebral canal, surrounding the spinal cord. They play a crucial role in the venous drainage of the spinal cord and surrounding structures. This article will provide a detailed overview of the internal vertebral venous plexuses, including their anatomy, function, and clinical significance.

Anatomy

The internal vertebral venous plexuses consist of two main components: the anterior internal vertebral venous plexus and the posterior internal vertebral venous plexus.

The anterior internal vertebral venous plexus is located anteriorly, between the vertebral bodies and the dura mater. It is formed by a network of veins that run along the anterior surface of the vertebral bodies. These veins receive blood from the spinal cord and its surrounding structures, such as the meninges and the intervertebral discs.

The posterior internal vertebral venous plexus is located posteriorly, between the dura mater and the vertebral arches. It is formed by a network of veins that run along the posterior surface of the vertebral bodies. These veins receive blood from the spinal cord and its surrounding structures, such as the posterior spinal arteries and the ligamentum flavum.

Both the anterior and posterior internal vertebral venous plexuses communicate with each other through numerous interconnecting veins. These veins form an extensive network that allows for the free flow of blood within the vertebral canal.

Function

The internal vertebral venous plexuses play a crucial role in the venous drainage of the spinal cord and surrounding structures. They serve as a major pathway for the return of deoxygenated blood from the spinal cord to the systemic circulation.

The veins of the internal vertebral venous plexuses receive blood from the spinal cord and its surrounding structures. This blood is then drained into the systemic circulation through various routes. Some of the blood may flow directly into the segmental veins, which are located along the vertebral column. From there, it may enter the azygos and hemiazygos veins, which ultimately drain into the superior vena cava.

Additionally, the internal vertebral venous plexuses communicate with the external vertebral venous plexuses, which are located outside the vertebral canal. These external plexuses receive blood from the muscles and other soft tissues of the back. The communication between the internal and external plexuses allows for the exchange of blood between the spinal cord and the surrounding tissues.

Clinical Significance

The internal vertebral venous plexuses have clinical significance in various pathological conditions. One such condition is spinal cord compression, which can occur due to the presence of a tumor or a herniated disc. In these cases, the increased pressure within the vertebral canal can lead to compression of the internal vertebral venous plexuses, resulting in impaired venous drainage from the spinal cord. This can further exacerbate the symptoms and complications associated with spinal cord compression.

Furthermore, the internal vertebral venous plexuses have been implicated in the spread of metastatic cancer to the spine. Cancer cells can enter the venous system and travel through the internal vertebral venous plexuses to reach the vertebral column. This can lead to the development of spinal metastases, which can cause pain, neurological deficits, and other complications.

In conclusion, the internal vertebral venous plexuses are an important component of the venous drainage system of the spinal cord. They play a crucial role in the return of deoxygenated blood from the spinal cord to the systemic circulation. Understanding the anatomy and function of these plexuses is essential for the diagnosis and management of various spinal cord disorders.

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