Vena vertebralis

Vena Vertebralis or Vertebral Vein is a component of the human circulatory system that is responsible for draining blood from the vertebral column and its associated structures. It is a paired vein, with one vein running along each side of the vertebral column.

Anatomy

The Vertebral Vein begins in the suboccipital triangle, a region at the back of the neck, and runs downwards along the vertebral column. It is located within the transverse foramen of each cervical vertebra, a hole through which the vertebral artery also passes. The vein then drains into the brachiocephalic vein, which in turn drains into the superior vena cava, the main vein of the upper body.

Function

The primary function of the Vertebral Vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the vertebral column and its associated structures, including the spinal cord, meninges, and the muscles and skin of the neck. This blood is then returned to the heart via the superior vena cava.

Clinical Significance

The Vertebral Vein can be affected by various medical conditions. For example, thrombosis (blood clotting) can occur in the vein, leading to vertebral vein thrombosis. This condition can cause neck pain and neurological symptoms due to reduced blood flow to the spinal cord and brain. The vein can also be affected by aneurysms, which are bulges in the vein wall that can rupture and cause bleeding.

See Also

• Human circulatory system
• Vertebral column
• Superior vena cava
• Thrombosis
• Aneurysm