Vena cavae

Vena cavae
Diagram showing the superior vena cava and inferior vena cava
Details
System	Circulatory system
Artery	Aorta
Identifiers
Latin	Venae cavae
TA98
TH	{{#property:P1694}}
TE	{{#property:P1693}}
FMA	{{#property:P1402}}
Anatomical terminology

The vena cavae are the two large veins that return deoxygenated blood from the body into the heart. They are essential components of the circulatory system, playing a critical role in maintaining the flow of blood back to the heart for reoxygenation.

Structure

The vena cavae consist of two main veins:

Superior Vena Cava

The superior vena cava (SVC) is a short, wide vein that carries blood from the upper half of the body, including the head, neck, upper limbs, and upper torso, back to the heart. It is formed by the joining of the left and right brachiocephalic veins and empties into the right atrium of the heart.

Inferior Vena Cava

The inferior vena cava (IVC) is the largest vein in the human body. It carries blood from the lower half of the body, including the lower limbs, pelvis, and abdomen, back to the heart. The IVC is formed by the joining of the left and right common iliac veins and also empties into the right atrium.

Function

The primary function of the vena cavae is to return deoxygenated blood to the heart. This blood is then pumped to the lungs via the pulmonary arteries for oxygenation. The efficient functioning of the vena cavae is crucial for maintaining the body's venous return and ensuring that the heart receives a continuous supply of blood to pump.

Clinical Significance

Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is a condition that occurs when the SVC is obstructed, leading to swelling and reduced blood flow from the upper body. Causes can include tumors, thrombosis, or other compressive forces.

Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis

Inferior vena cava thrombosis is a condition where a blood clot forms in the IVC, potentially leading to serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Development

During embryonic development, the vena cavae form from a complex series of venous channels that undergo significant remodeling. The SVC is derived from the right common cardinal vein and the right anterior cardinal vein, while the IVC is formed from the posterior cardinal veins, subcardinal veins, and supracardinal veins.

Also see

• Circulatory system
• Heart
• Vein
• Pulmonary circulation
• Aorta