Ileal veins

Ileal veins are veins that drain the ileum, a part of the small intestine. They are part of the portal venous system, which carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver.

Etymology

The term "ileal" is derived from the Latin word "ileum", which means "groin" or "flank". This is likely due to the location of the ileum in the lower part of the abdomen. The term "vein" comes from the Latin word "vena", which means "blood vessel".

Anatomy

The ileal veins drain the ileum and join with the superior mesenteric vein to form the portal vein. The portal vein then carries the blood to the liver, where it is processed and detoxified.

The ileal veins are accompanied by the ileal arteries, which supply blood to the ileum. These arteries and veins run together in the mesentery, a fold of membrane that attaches the intestine to the abdominal wall.

Clinical significance

The ileal veins, like other veins in the portal venous system, can be affected by portal hypertension. This is a condition where there is increased pressure in the portal vein, often due to liver disease. This can lead to complications such as varices, which are enlarged veins that can rupture and bleed.

Related terms

• Ileum
• Vein
• Portal venous system
• Superior mesenteric vein
• Portal vein
• Mesentery
• Portal hypertension
• Varices

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