Femoral vein

A major blood vessel responsible for draining deoxygenated blood from the thigh and lower leg back to the heart.

The femoral vein is a large blood vessel located in the thigh region that plays a vital role in the circulatory system. It collects blood from the deep structures of the thigh and the lower leg. The femoral vein runs alongside the femoral artery and is named for its close association with the femur, the thigh bone.

Terminologia Anatomica

vena-femoralis

System

Circulatory system

Function

The primary function of the femoral vein is to transport deoxygenated blood from the deep veins of the thigh and the lower leg back to the heart. As one of the main veins of the lower extremity, it absorbs blood from smaller veins that drain muscles and tissues within the thigh, ensuring that metabolic waste can be efficiently removed. This includes collecting blood that has delivered oxygen and nutrients to various muscles and organs, thus facilitating essential bodily functions such as movement and stability. Additionally, the femoral vein plays a significant role in regulating blood flow during physical activities, maintaining venous return to the heart despite gravitational challenges during standing or walking.

Location

The femoral vein is situated deep within the thigh, running alongside the femoral artery within the femoral sheath. It begins at the joint between the hip and the thigh, continuing downwards until it eventually merges with other veins to form the external iliac vein near the groin area. This positioning within the thigh allows it to effectively collect blood from the tributaries that drain the muscles and skin, while being adequately protected by surrounding muscles and tissue.

Did You Know?

The femoral vein is often used in medical procedures such as venipuncture for drawing blood or inserting catheters due to its size and accessibility.
Unlike arteries, veins like the femoral vein have valves that help prevent the backflow of blood, ensuring efficient return to the heart.
Blood flow in the femoral vein is influenced by muscle contractions during activities like walking or running, which helps to pump blood upwards toward the heart.