Vein, portal


A large vein that carries blood from the stomach and the intestines to the liver.

The portal vein is formed by the union of the splenic and superior mesenteric veins. It conveys venous blood to the liver for detoxification before the blood is returned to the circulation via the hepatic veins.

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    One of four vessels that carry aerated blood from the lungs to the left atrium of the heart. (The four are the right and left superior and inferior pulmonary veins). The pulmonary veins are the only veins that carry bright red oxygenated blood.

  • Vein, splenic

    A vein that is formed by the union of several small veins draining blood from the stomach, pancreas and spleen. The splenic vein is a major contributor to the portal vein which goes to the liver.

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    A large vein that receives blood from the head, neck, upper extremities, and thorax and empties it into the right atrium of the heart.

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