Vena ileocolica

Vena Ileocolica is a vein that drains the ileum and the cecum. It is a part of the portal venous system, which carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver. The vena ileocolica is a tributary of the superior mesenteric vein.

Anatomy

The vena ileocolica originates from the ileocolic region of the small intestine and the large intestine. It drains blood from the terminal part of the ileum, the cecum, and the appendix. The vein then joins the superior mesenteric vein, which eventually forms the portal vein.

Function

The primary function of the vena ileocolica is to drain deoxygenated blood and various other substances from the ileum and the cecum. These substances include nutrients, toxins, and waste products, which are then transported to the liver for processing.

Clinical Significance

The vena ileocolica, like other veins in the portal venous system, can be affected by various medical conditions. These include portal hypertension, thrombosis, and varices. Portal hypertension can lead to the enlargement of the vena ileocolica, while thrombosis can cause blockage of the vein. Varices, on the other hand, are abnormal, dilated veins that can occur in the vena ileocolica due to increased pressure in the portal venous system.

See Also

• Portal vein
• Superior mesenteric vein
• Ileum
• Cecum