Spinal vein

Spinal Vein

File:Gray's Anatomy plate 384.png

Illustration of the spinal vein from Gray's Anatomy

The spinal vein is a part of the human circulatory system that drains blood from the spinal cord. It is a component of the vertebral venous plexus, a network of interconnected veins that run along the length of the vertebral column.

Structure

The spinal vein is located within the vertebral canal, running along the surface of the spinal cord. It is connected to the internal vertebral venous plexuses, which are located within the vertebral body. These plexuses are interconnected, allowing blood to flow freely between them.

Function

The primary function of the spinal vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the spinal cord and surrounding structures. This blood is then returned to the heart via the vertebral veins, which are part of the larger systemic circulation.

Clinical significance

Due to its location and function, the spinal vein can be affected by various medical conditions. These include spinal cord compression, which can result from spinal stenosis or vertebral fracture, and spinal cord infarction, which can occur if blood flow through the spinal vein is disrupted.

See also

• Vertebral venous plexus
• Spinal cord
• Vertebral column
• Human circulatory system