Vena umbilicalis

Vena Umbilicalis is a component of the umbilical cord, a structure that connects a mother and her developing fetus during pregnancy. The vena umbilicalis, also known as the umbilical vein, carries oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus.

Structure and Function

The vena umbilicalis is one of the three vessels in the umbilical cord, the other two being the umbilical arteries. Unlike the arteries, which carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus to the placenta, the vena umbilicalis carries oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetus. This blood provides the fetus with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to grow and develop.

The vena umbilicalis is surrounded by Wharton's jelly, a gelatinous substance that protects the vessels in the umbilical cord from pressure and damage. After birth, the umbilical vein closes off and eventually becomes a fibrous cord known as the round ligament of the liver.

Clinical Significance

The vena umbilicalis can be used for medical procedures in newborns, such as umbilical vein catheterization. This procedure involves inserting a catheter into the umbilical vein to administer medications or fluids, or to draw blood for testing.

In some cases, abnormalities of the vena umbilicalis can indicate potential health issues. For example, a single umbilical artery (instead of the usual two) can be a sign of congenital abnormalities. Additionally, an enlarged or dilated umbilical vein can be a sign of portal hypertension or other liver diseases.

See Also

• Umbilical cord
• Umbilical arteries
• Placenta
• Pregnancy
• Fetus