Vena sublingualis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Vena Sublingualis is a vein located in the human body, specifically in the oral region. It is a part of the human circulatory system, which is responsible for the transportation of blood throughout the body.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Vena Sublingualis is a tributary of the lingual vein, which is itself a branch of the internal jugular vein. It is located beneath the tongue, hence its name 'sublingual', which is derived from Latin and means 'under the tongue'. The vein is responsible for draining blood from the sublingual region, which includes the floor of the mouth and the anterior two-thirds of the tongue.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the Vena Sublingualis is to drain deoxygenated blood from the sublingual region and transport it back to the heart. This is a crucial part of the body's circulatory system, as it ensures that all tissues receive a constant supply of oxygenated blood.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The Vena Sublingualis can be involved in various medical conditions. For instance, it can become enlarged or varicose in cases of portal hypertension, a condition where there is increased pressure within the portal venous system. This can lead to complications such as esophageal varices and gastrointestinal bleeding.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD