Spinal vein

The spinal vein is a component of the circulatory system that is responsible for draining blood from the spinal cord. It plays a crucial role in the venous drainage of the central nervous system.

Anatomy

The spinal vein is part of a network of veins that includes the anterior spinal vein and the posterior spinal vein. These veins run along the length of the spinal cord and are responsible for collecting deoxygenated blood from the spinal cord and surrounding structures.

Anterior Spinal Vein

The anterior spinal vein is located on the anterior surface of the spinal cord. It receives blood from the anterior spinal artery and drains into the vertebral veins and the basivertebral veins.

Posterior Spinal Vein

The posterior spinal vein is situated on the posterior aspect of the spinal cord. It collects blood from the posterior spinal artery and drains into the vertebral venous plexus.

Function

The primary function of the spinal vein is to facilitate the removal of deoxygenated blood from the spinal cord. This is essential for maintaining the proper function and health of the central nervous system. The blood collected by the spinal veins is eventually drained into larger veins such as the vertebral veins and the azygos vein, which then transport it back to the heart.

Clinical Significance

Disorders affecting the spinal veins can lead to significant clinical conditions. For example, spinal venous thrombosis can result in impaired blood flow and lead to spinal cord ischemia. Understanding the anatomy and function of the spinal veins is crucial for diagnosing and treating such conditions.

See Also

• Spinal cord
• Vertebral veins
• Azygos vein
• Central nervous system

External Links

• Spinal vein on WikiMD