Vena Lienalis (Noun)
Meaning
A vein formed by several small veins on the surface of the spleen; joins the superior mesenteric to form the portal vein.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The vena lienalis, also known as the splenic vein, drains the spleen and passes down the ligament between the liver and stomach to empty into the portal vein.
- In humans, the vena lienalis plays a vital role in returning blood from the spleen to the heart through the hepatic portal system.
- During fetal development, the vena lienalis plays a role in draining the spleen, a major site of erythropoiesis and the maturation of red blood cells.
- A normal vena lienalis forms a prominent vascular landmark visible in medical imaging studies, including radiographs and CT scans.
- Surgically, preserving the integrity of the vena lienalis during removal of the spleen, also known as a splenectomy, can prevent potentially severe complications such as hemorrhage and sepsis.