Pyloric vein

Pyloric vein

The pyloric vein is visible in this illustration from Gray's Anatomy.

The Pyloric vein is a small blood vessel that drains blood from the pylorus, the lower part of the stomach that connects to the duodenum. It is a branch of the right gastric vein and is part of the portal venous system, which carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver.

Structure

The pyloric vein originates from the right gastric vein near the lesser curvature of the stomach. It runs along the lesser curvature, draining blood from the pylorus. The vein then joins the portal vein, which carries the blood to the liver for filtration and detoxification.

Function

The primary function of the pyloric vein is to drain blood from the pylorus. This blood contains nutrients absorbed from food in the stomach, as well as waste products for removal by the liver.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to the pyloric vein can lead to conditions such as portal hypertension, which can cause varices (enlarged veins) in the stomach and esophagus. These varices can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding.

See also

• Veins of the torso
• Stomach