Vena lingualis

Vena Lingualis (or the Lingual Vein) is a blood vessel that drains the tongue and is part of the human circulatory system. It is a significant component of the venous system in the head and neck region.

Anatomy

The vena lingualis originates from the venous plexus on the surface of the tongue. It runs along the underside of the tongue, close to the lingual artery and lingual nerve. The vein then drains into the internal jugular vein, which carries deoxygenated blood from the head and neck back to the heart.

Function

The primary function of the vena lingualis is to drain deoxygenated blood from the tongue and transport it back to the heart. This process is crucial for the overall functioning of the circulatory system and for maintaining the body's homeostasis.

Clinical Significance

The vena lingualis can be involved in various medical conditions. For instance, it can be affected by thrombosis, a condition where a blood clot forms in a vein. It can also be involved in varices, which are enlarged and swollen veins. In rare cases, the vena lingualis can be used for venous access in medical procedures.

See Also

• Human circulatory system
• Venous system
• Lingual artery
• Lingual nerve
• Internal jugular vein