Vena portae

Vena Portae (also known as the Portal Vein) is a major vein in the human body that carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract, gallbladder, pancreas, and spleen to the liver. This blood contains nutrients and byproducts of cellular metabolism that need to be processed by the liver.

Anatomy

The vena portae is formed by the union of the superior mesenteric vein and the splenic vein behind the neck of the pancreas. It ascends to the right, then passes to the left in a groove on the posterior surface of the liver, and finally, it divides into right and left branches, which ramify within the liver.

Function

The primary function of the vena portae is to transport blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver. This blood is rich in nutrients absorbed from the intestines, which the liver processes and distributes to the rest of the body. The vena portae also carries waste products and toxins from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver, where they are detoxified and excreted.

Clinical Significance

Diseases of the vena portae can have serious health implications. Portal hypertension, a condition characterized by increased pressure in the portal vein system, can lead to complications such as esophageal varices and ascites. Portal vein thrombosis, the formation of a blood clot in the portal vein, can obstruct blood flow to the liver and lead to liver damage or failure.

See Also

• Hepatic portal system
• Liver
• Portal hypertension
• Portal vein thrombosis