Mesenteric veins

Veins that drain deoxygenated blood from the intestines back to the heart.

Mesenteric veins are a collection of veins that are responsible for draining blood from the intestine and the mesentery, which is the tissue that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall. They play a crucial role in returning deoxygenated blood that has already delivered nutrients absorbed from digested food back to the heart for reoxygenation. The primary mesenteric veins include the superior mesenteric vein and the inferior mesenteric vein, each corresponding to specific sections of the intestines.

Terminologia Anatomica

vena-mesenterica

System

Circulatory system

Function

The primary function of the mesenteric veins is to ensure that the blood enriched with nutrients from the digestive process is efficiently transported from the intestines to the liver. This blood flow is crucial since the liver processes nutrients and detoxifies harmful substances before they enter the general circulation. The superior mesenteric vein collects blood from most parts of the small intestine and the proximal colon, while the inferior mesenteric vein drains blood from the distal colon and rectum. This organization allows for an organized and systematic return of nutrient-rich blood to the central circulatory system, highlighting the importance of mesenteric veins in maintaining homeostasis and overall health.

Location

Mesenteric veins are situated within the abdominal cavity, closely associated with the intestines and mesentery. The superior mesenteric vein runs parallel to the superior mesenteric artery, located at the level of the second lumbar vertebra, draining the small intestine and parts of the large intestine. It travels upwards to merge with the splenic vein, subsequently forming the hepatic portal vein, which carries blood to the liver. In contrast, the inferior mesenteric vein runs along the left side of the abdominal cavity, draining the lower portions of the large intestine before also joining the splenic vein. The strategic positioning of these veins allows for efficient drainage and transport of nutrient-laden blood.

Did You Know?

The mesenteric veins are part of the hepatic portal system, which is crucial for liver function.
Blood from the mesenteric veins carries nutrients absorbed from food, making these veins essential for digestive efficiency.
Dysfunction or blockage of mesenteric veins can lead to serious conditions such as mesenteric venous thrombosis, impacting intestinal health.