Blood Vessels Lab Flashcards
(94 cards)
1
Q
10
11
A
Tunica interna
10 - tunica interna-vein
11 - tunica interna -artery
- Innermost layer of a blood vessel
- Lined by simple squamous epithelium (called endothelium)
- Rests on a basement membrane / basal lamina and thin layer of areolar connective tissue
- Provides a smooth surface for blood flow and regulates vascular tone and permeability
2
Q
A
Tunica media
6 - tunica media - vein
9 - tunica media - artery
- Middle layer of a blood vessel
- Composed primarily of smooth muscle cells
- May also contain elastic fibers (especially in arteries)
- Responsible for vasoconstriction and vasodilation → regulates blood pressure and flow
- Thicker in arteries than in veins
3
Q
A
Tunica externa (also called tunica adventitia)
4 - tunica externa - vein
5 - tunica externa artery
- Outermost layer of a blood vessel
- Made of areolar connective tissue with collagen and elastic fibers
- Anchors vessel to surrounding structures
- Contains vasa vasorum (small vessels that supply larger vessel walls) in large arteries and veins
4
Q
Elastic Vs muscular artery
A
-
Elastic arteries (e.g. aorta, pulmonary trunk)
- Tunica media: thick, rich in elastic fibers
- Expand and recoil to dampen pressure surges from ventricular systole
- Designed for conducting blood from heart to medium arteries
- Appear with wavy/blue elastic lamellae in histology
-
Muscular arteries (e.g. brachial, radial)
- Tunica media: dominated by smooth muscle, fewer elastic fibers
- Prominent internal elastic lamina (visible dark band)
- Regulate blood flow via vasoconstriction/vasodilation
- Designed for distributing blood to organs
5
Q
A
Vasa Vasorum
- “Vessels of the vessels”: small blood vessels that supply the walls of large arteries and veins
- Found in the tunica externa (and outer tunica media) of large vessels (e.g. aorta, vena cava)
- Provide oxygen and nutrients to outer layers of vessel walls that are too thick for diffusion from the lumen
- More prominent in veins (due to lower oxygen content in blood)
6
Q
A
ascending aorta
- First section of the aorta arising from the left ventricle of the heart
- Carries oxygenated blood to the systemic circulation
- Gives rise to the right and left coronary arteries → supply the heart itself
- Leads into the aortic arch, which then branches to the head, neck, and upper limbs
7
Q
A
Aortic Arch
- Curved continuation of the ascending aorta, located superior to the heart
- Gives rise to three major branches:
1. Brachiocephalic trunk → splits into right subclavian and right common carotid artery
2. Left common carotid artery
3. Left subclavian artery
- Supplies blood to the head, neck, and upper limbs
- Continues as the descending thoracic aorta
8
Q
A
Brachiocephalic Trunk
- First and largest branch of the aortic arch
- Found only on the right side of the body
- Quickly bifurcates into:
1. Right common carotid artery → supplies the right head and neck
2. Right subclavian artery → supplies the right upper limb
- Delivers oxygenated blood from the heart to the right side of the head and right arm
9
Q
A
Right Subclavian Artery
- Branches from the brachiocephalic trunk
- Supplies oxygenated blood to the right upper limb, shoulder, and parts of the thorax and neck
- Gives rise to several branches, including the vertebral artery, internal thoracic artery, and thyrocervical trunk
- Continues as the axillary artery after passing the lateral border of the first rib
left on left side3
10
Q
green
A
Anterior Intercostal Arteries
- Branches of the internal thoracic artery - which arises from the subclavian artery “across” from the vertebral artery
- Run along the inferior border of the ribs within the costal grooves
- Supply oxygenated blood to the intercostal muscles, skin, and parietal pleura of the anterior thoracic wall
- Anastomose with posterior intercostal arteries to ensure collateral circulation
11
Q
6, 17
A
right vertebral artery
Right Vertebral Artery
- Branch of the right subclavian artery
- Enters the cranial cavity via the foramen magnum
- Joins the left vertebral artery to form the basilar artery which becomes the posterior cerebral artery part of the circle of willis
16 right thyrocervical trunk
12
Q
A
Right Axillary Artery
- Continuation of the right subclavian artery
- Begins at the lateral border of the first rib and ends at the inferior border of the teres major muscle, where it becomes the brachial artery
- Passes through the axilla (armpit) region
- Gives rise to several branches, including the *, subscapular
Right side - brachicephalic trunk, right subclavian, right axillary, right brachial -> right radial / right ulnar
13
Q
A
Right Subscapular Artery
- Largest branch of the axillary artery
- Arises near the inferior border of the subscapularis muscle
- Supplies oxygenated blood to the scapula, latissimus dorsi, and surrounding muscles of the posterior shoulder
- Divides into two main branches:
1. Thoracodorsal artery → supplies latissimus dorsi
2. Circumflex scapular artery → supplies posterior scapular region
14
Q
A
Right and Left Brachial Artery
- Continuation of the axillary artery
- Begins at the inferior border of the teres major muscle
- Travels down the anterior arm, alongside the median nerve
- Supplies oxygenated blood to the anterior arm muscles (e.g., biceps brachii, brachialis)
- Ends in the cubital fossa, where it bifurcates into:
- Radial artery
- Ulnar artery
- Common site for measuring blood pressure using a cuff and stethoscope
15
Q
A
Radial Artery
- One of the two terminal branches of the brachial artery (the other is the ulnar artery)
- Runs along the lateral (thumb) side of the forearm
- Supplies oxygenated blood to the lateral forearm, wrist, and hand
- Commonly used to palpate pulse at the wrist
- Contributes to the deep palmar arch in the hand
16
Q
A
Ulnar Artery
- One of the two terminal branches of the brachial artery (along with the radial artery)
- Runs along the medial (pinky) side of the forearm
- Supplies oxygenated blood to the medial forearm, wrist, and hand
- Primarily contributes to the superficial palmar arch in the hand
17
Q
8
A
Right Common Carotid
- Arises from the brachiocephalic trunk
- Ascends through the neck
- Bifurcates at the level of C3–C4 (around the thyroid cartilage) into:
- Internal carotid artery → supplies the brain
- External carotid artery → supplies the face and neck
- Contains the carotid sinus (baroreceptor) and carotid body (chemoreceptor) near the bifurcation
18
Q
A
Left Common Carotid Artery
- Arises directly from the aortic arch (second branch)
- Otherwise identical in structure and function to the right common carotid artery
- Also travels in the carotid sheath, bifurcates at C3–C4, and supplies the head and neck via internal and external branches
19
Q
A
Right External Carotid Artery
- Branch of the right common carotid artery
- Arises at the level of C3–C4, near the thyroid cartilage
- Travels superiorly outside the skull
- Supplies structures of the face, scalp, jaw, neck, and base of the skull
- Gives rise to several major branches, including: Superficial temporal artery –
20
Q
A
Right Superficial Temporal Artery
- Terminal branch of the right external carotid artery
- Ascends anterior to the ear, over the zygomatic arch, and into the scalp
- Supplies scalp and temporal region, including portions of the frontal and parietal bones
- Commonly used to palpate the temporal pulse
- Clinically relevant in conditions like temporal arteritis (giant cell arteritis)
21
Q
A
Right Internal Carotid Artery
- gives rices to anterior cerebral artery, middle cerebral artery, posterior communicating artery -> circle of willis
22
Q
Circle of Willis
A
- A circular arterial anastomosis located at the base of the brain
- Connects the internal carotid arteries and vertebral arteries
- Provides redundant circulation (collateral flow) to the brain in case of arterial blockage or narrowing
- Surrounds the optic chiasm and pituitary stalk
- Formed by the union of:
- Anterior cerebral arteries (right and left)
- Anterior communicating artery
- Internal carotid arteries (right and left)
- Posterior cerebral arteries (right and left)
- Posterior communicating arteries (right and left)
23
Q
A
Descending Thoracic Aorta
- Continuation of the aortic arch, runs posteriorly and inferiorly through the thorax
- Gives off posterior intercostal arteries (supply thoracic wall and back)
- Also branches to esophagus, bronchi, and pericardium
- Lies to the left of the vertebral column, shifts medially as it descends
- Transitions into abdominal aorta after passing through the aortic hiatus of the diaphragm (at T12)
24
Q
A
Posterior Intercostal Arteries
- Branches off the descending thoracic aorta
- Anastomose with anterior intercostal arteries from the internal thoracic artery
25
**Abdominal Aorta**
- Continuation of the **descending aorta** after passing through the **aortic hiatus** of the diaphragm (at **T12**)
- Runs anterior to the vertebral bodies in the **retroperitoneal space**
- Gives rise to major branches:
1. **Celiac trunk** → supplies **foregut**
2. **Superior mesenteric artery (SMA)** → supplies **midgut**
3. **Inferior mesenteric artery (IMA)** → supplies **hindgut**
4. **Renal arteries** → supply **kidneys**
5. **Gonadal arteries** (testicular/ovarian)
6. **Lumbar arteries** → supply **posterior abdominal wall**
- Ends by bifurcating at **L4** into:
- **Right and left common iliac arteries**
- Supplies blood to the **abdominal organs**, **abdominal wall**, and **pelvic structures**
26
**Celiac Trunk**
- First major branch of the **abdominal aorta**, arises at level **T12**
- Supplies blood to the **foregut** organs
- Immediately branches into three arteries:
1. **Left gastric artery** → supplies **stomach** (lesser curvature) and **lower esophagus**
2. **Splenic artery** → supplies **spleen**, **pancreas**, and part of the **stomach**
3. **Common hepatic artery** → supplies **liver**, **gallbladder**, **stomach**, **duodenum**, and **pancreas**
- Essential for delivering **oxygenated blood** to upper abdominal organs derived from the **foregut**
27
**Common Hepatic Artery**
- One of the three main branches of the **celiac trunk** (along with the **left gastric** and **splenic arteries**)
- Arises at **T12**, travels toward the liver along the upper border of the pancreas
- Supplies oxygenated blood to the **liver**, **stomach**, **duodenum**, and **pancreas**
- Gives off key branches:
1. Gastroduodenal artery → supplies stomach, duodenum, and pancreas
2. Continues as the **proper hepatic artery** → ascends with **portal vein** and **common bile duct** in the **portal triad**
- Part of the **foregut circulation**, derived from the **celiac trunk**
28
**Left Gastric Artery**
- Smallest of the three main branches of the **celiac trunk**
- Ascends to the **esophagus**, then turns to follow the **lesser curvature of the stomach**
- Supplies:
- **Distal esophagus**
- **Upper lesser curvature of the stomach**
- Forms an **anastomosis** with the **right gastric artery** along the **lesser curvature**
- Plays a key role in **foregut blood supply**
29
**Splenic Artery**
- One of the three main branches of the **celiac trunk**
- Takes a **tortuous path** along the **superior border of the pancreas** toward the **spleen**
- Supplies:
- **Spleen** (main target)
- **Pancreas** (via pancreatic branches)
- **Stomach** (via short gastric and left gastroepiploic arteries)
- Enters the **hilum of the spleen** along with the splenic vein and lymphatics
- Part of the **foregut circulation**
30
**Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA)**
- Major branch of the **abdominal aorta**, arises at **L1**, just below the **celiac trunk**
- Supplies **midgut-derived structures**
- Forms anastomoses with the celiac trunk (via pancreaticoduodenal arteries) and the inferior mesenteric artery (via marginal artery)
31
**Inferior Mesenteric Artery (IMA)**
- Branch of the **abdominal aorta**, arises at level **L3**, below the **renal arteries**
- Forms **anastomoses** with the **superior mesenteric artery** via the **marginal artery** (of Drummond)
32
**Gonadal Arteries**
- Paired branches of the **abdominal aorta**
- Arise **inferior to the renal arteries**, typically at **L2 level**
- Named based on sex:
- **Testicular arteries** in males
→ Travel through **inguinal canal** as part of the **spermatic cord** to supply the **testes**
- **Ovarian arteries** in females
→ Travel through the **suspensory ligament of the ovary** to supply the **ovaries** and part of the **uterine tube**
- Long, slender arteries that descend into the **pelvic or scrotal region**
- Accompanied by corresponding **gonadal veins**
33
**Renal Arteries**
- Paired arteries arising from the **abdominal aorta** at level **L1–L2**
- Supply **oxygenated blood to the kidneys**
34
**Common Iliac Arteries (Right and Left)**
- Terminal branches of the **abdominal aorta**
- Arise at level **L4**, where the aorta bifurcates
- Each common iliac artery travels laterally and slightly inferiorly
- At the level of the **lumbosacral junction (L5–S1)**, each divides into:
1. **External iliac artery** → supplies the **lower limb**
2. **Internal iliac artery** → supplies **pelvic organs**, **gluteal region**, and **medial thigh**
- Major vessels supplying the **pelvis** and **lower extremities**
35
**External Iliac Artery**
- Terminal branch of the **common iliac artery**
- Runs along the **pelvic brim**, just medial to the **psoas major muscle**
- Transitions into the **femoral artery** after passing under the **inguinal ligament**
- Supplies:
- **Lower limb** (via continuation as femoral artery)
- **Anterior abdominal wall** and **external genitalia** (via smaller branches)
- Key branches before becoming the femoral artery:
1. **Inferior epigastric artery** → ascends to supply anterior abdominal wall
2. **Deep circumflex iliac artery** → supplies lower lateral abdominal wall
36
**Internal Iliac Artery**
- Smaller terminal branch of the **common iliac artery**
- Descends into the **pelvic cavity** to supply **pelvic organs**, **gluteal muscles**, and parts of the **perineum** and **medial thigh**
- Divides into **anterior and posterior divisions**, which give off multiple branches:
- Major source of blood for **pelvic viscera**, **gluteal region**, and **reproductive organs**
37
**Right and Left Femoral Arteries**
- Continuations of the **external iliac arteries** after they pass under the **inguinal ligament**
- Begin in the **anterior thigh**, running through the **femoral triangle**
- Supply **oxygenated blood** to the **anterior thigh**, **medial thigh**, and parts of the **hip** and **knee**
- Give off major branches including:
- **Deep femoral artery (profunda femoris)** → supplies **deep thigh muscles**
- **Medial and lateral circumflex femoral arteries** → supply **hip joint**
- Continue as the **popliteal arteries** after passing through the **adductor hiatus** into the posterior knee
38
**Deep Femoral Artery (Profunda Femoris)**
- Major branch of the **femoral artery**, arises in the **upper thigh**
- Runs **deep to the femoral artery** and supplies the **deep muscles of the thigh**
- Supplies:
- **Hamstrings** and **quadriceps**
- **Adductor muscles** of the medial thigh
- Gives off:
- **Lateral circumflex femoral artery** → supplies anterior/lateral thigh and hip
- **Medial circumflex femoral artery** → supplies hip joint and head of femur
- **Perforating arteries** → pierce adductor magnus to reach posterior compartment
- Main source of blood for the **thigh musculature**
39
**Popliteal Artery**
- Continuation of the **femoral artery** after it passes through the **adductor hiatus**
- Located in the **popliteal fossa** (behind the knee)
- Supplies:
- **Knee joint** (via genicular branches)
- **Muscles of the lower leg**
- Divides into:
1. **Anterior tibial artery** → supplies anterior leg and dorsum of foot
2. **Posterior tibial artery** → supplies posterior leg and plantar surface of foot
- Deeply positioned and protected within the popliteal fossa, alongside the **popliteal vein** and **tibial nerve**
40
**Anterior Tibial Artery**
- Branch of the **popliteal artery**
- Passes through the **interosseous membrane** to enter the **anterior compartment** of the leg
- Supplies:
- **Anterior leg muscles** (e.g. tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus)
- **Dorsum of the foot**
- Continues as the **dorsalis pedis artery** on the top of the foot
- Runs alongside the **deep fibular (peroneal) nerve**
- Provides blood for **dorsiflexion** muscles and contributes to **foot circulation**
41
**Posterior Tibial Artery**
- Terminal branch of the **popliteal artery**
- Runs in the **posterior compartment** of the leg, deep to the soleus muscle
- Supplies:
- **Posterior leg muscles** (e.g. gastrocnemius, soleus, tibialis posterior)
- **Plantar surface of the foot**
- Gives rise to the **fibular (peroneal) artery** laterally
- Passes **posterior to the medial malleolus** (where its pulse can be palpated)
- Divides into the **medial and lateral plantar arteries** in the foot
- Main blood supply for the **posterior leg** and **plantar foot**
42
*#6*
*7 posterior tibial artery*
*5 left anterior tibial artery*
*4 left popliteal artery*
**Fibular Artery** (also called **Peroneal Artery**)
- Branch of the **posterior tibial artery**
- Runs along the **posterior compartment** near the **fibula**, deep to the soleus
- Supplies:
- **Lateral compartment of the leg** (fibularis longus and brevis muscles)
- Contributes to **posterior leg** and **ankle** blood supply
- Gives off **perforating branches** to the **anterior compartment** and **ankle joint**
- Does **not reach the foot directly**, but supports **collateral circulation**
43
**Dorsalis Pedis Artery**
*dorsal pedis vein*
- Continuation of the **anterior tibial artery** beyond the **ankle joint**
- Runs along the **dorsum of the foot**, just **lateral to the tendon of extensor hallucis longus**
- Supplies:
- **Dorsal foot muscles**
- **Tarsal bones** and **metatarsals**
- Contributes to the **arcuate artery** and **deep plantar artery**
- Important site for assessing **peripheral circulation**
→ **Dorsalis pedis pulse** is palpated on the top of the foot
44
45
**Internal Carotid Artery – Circle of Willis**
- One of the two main arteries (right and left) supplying the **anterior circulation of the brain**
- Enters the skull via the **carotid canal** and contributes to the **Circle of Willis**
- Major branches relevant to the Circle of Willis:
1. **Anterior cerebral artery** → supplies **medial frontal and parietal lobes**
2. **Middle cerebral artery** (largest branch, not part of circle) → supplies **lateral cerebral cortex**
3. **Posterior communicating artery** → connects to the **posterior cerebral artery**, completing the circle
- Role in Circle of Willis:
- Provides **redundant blood flow** to prevent ischemia
- Connects **anterior and posterior circulations** of the brain
- Ensures **collateral flow** between the internal carotids and vertebrobasilar system
46
**Anterior Cerebral Artery (ACA)**
- Branch of the **internal carotid artery**
- Runs anteriorly and medially, then arches over the **corpus callosum**
- Supplies:
- **Medial frontal and parietal lobes**
- **Corpus callosum**
- **Superior medial motor cortex** (especially **lower limb areas**)
- Part of the **Circle of Willis**, where it connects to the contralateral ACA via the **anterior communicating artery**
---
**Anterior Communicating Artery**
- Short artery that **connects the left and right anterior cerebral arteries**
- Completes the **anterior portion** of the **Circle of Willis**
- Allows for **collateral blood flow** between the left and right hemispheres
- Common site of **cerebral aneurysms**
47
**Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA)**
- Largest branch of the **internal carotid artery**
- Not part of the **Circle of Willis**, but a major supplier of **lateral cerebral circulation**
- Travels laterally into the **lateral sulcus (Sylvian fissure)**
- Supplies:
- **Lateral surfaces** of the **frontal**, **parietal**, and **temporal lobes**
- **Primary motor and sensory cortices** (especially for **face and upper limbs**)
- **Broca’s** and **Wernicke’s areas** (language centers, typically in the left hemisphere)
- **MCA stroke** is the most common type of ischemic stroke and may cause:
- **Contralateral face and arm weakness**
- **Aphasia** (if dominant hemisphere is affected)
48
**Posterior Cerebral Artery (PCA)**
- Terminal branch of the **basilar artery** (formed by the fusion of vertebral arteries)
- Part of the **posterior circulation** of the brain
- Connects to the **internal carotid system** via the **posterior communicating artery** → helps form the **Circle of Willis**
- Supplies:
- **Occipital lobe** → primary visual cortex
- **Inferior temporal lobe**
- Parts of the **thalamus** and **midbrain**
- **PCA stroke** can lead to:
- **Contralateral homonymous hemianopia** (loss of same visual field in both eyes)
- Possible **visual agnosia** or **memory deficits**
49
**Posterior Communicating Artery**
- Small artery that connects the **internal carotid artery** to the **posterior cerebral artery (PCA)**
- Helps complete the **posterior portion** of the **Circle of Willis**
- Function:
- Provides **collateral circulation** between the **anterior (carotid)** and **posterior (vertebrobasilar)** systems
- Allows rerouting of blood flow in case of blockage or narrowing
- Clinical note:
- Common site for **berry (saccular) aneurysms**, which can cause **cranial nerve III palsy** (eye movement abnormalities)
50
**Basilar Artery**
- Formed by the **union of the right and left vertebral arteries** at the base of the brainstem (on the anterior surface of the pons)
- Part of the **posterior circulation** of the brain
- Gives rise to several key branches:
- **Anterior inferior cerebellar arteries (AICA)**
- **Pontine arteries** → supply pons
- **Superior cerebellar arteries**
- Ends by bifurcating into the **right and left posterior cerebral arteries (PCA)**
- Supplies:
- **Pons**, **midbrain**, and **cerebellum**
- Contributes to the **Circle of Willis** via the **PCA**
- Critical for perfusing the **brainstem and cerebellar structures**
51
**Vertebral Arteries – Circle of Willis**
- Paired arteries that arise from the **subclavian arteries**
- Ascend through the **transverse foramina** of cervical vertebrae and enter the skull via the **foramen magnum**
- Unite at the base of the brain to form the **basilar artery**
- Indirectly contribute to the **Circle of Willis** through the **basilar artery**, which terminates as the:
- **Posterior cerebral arteries (PCA)** → connect to internal carotids via the **posterior communicating arteries**
- Supply:
- **Brainstem**, **cerebellum**, and **posterior cerebral hemispheres**
- Essential to the **posterior circulation** and foundational to the **Circle of Willis** structure
52
*Top*
**Superior Sagittal Sinus**
- A **dural venous sinus** located along the **midline** at the superior edge of the **falx cerebri**
- Collects **venous blood** from the **cerebral veins** and **cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)** from **arachnoid granulations**
- Drains posteriorly into the **confluence of sinuses**, then into the **transverse sinus**
- Lined by **endothelium**, but **lacks valves**
- Plays a key role in:
- **Venous drainage** of the brain
- **CSF reabsorption** into the bloodstream via **arachnoid villi**
53
**Internal Jugular Vein**
- Major vein that drains **blood from the brain**, **face**, and **neck**
- Begins at the **jugular foramen** as a continuation of the **sigmoid sinus**
- Descends within the **carotid sheath**, alongside the **common carotid artery** and **vagus nerve**
- Joins the **subclavian vein** to form the **brachiocephalic vein**
- Receives blood from:
- **Facial vein**
- **Lingual vein**
- **Thyroid veins**
- **Pharyngeal veins**
54
**External Jugular Vein**
- Formed by the union of the **posterior auricular vein** and **retromandibular vein**
- Runs superficial to the **sternocleidomastoid muscle**
- Drains **superficial structures of the scalp and face**
- Empties into the **subclavian vein**
- Often visible under the skin, especially when **venous pressure increases**
55
**Vertebral Vein**
- Paired vein that runs through the **transverse foramina** of the cervical vertebrae, alongside the **vertebral artery**
- Begins in the **suboccipital region** and descends through the neck
- Drains:
- **Cervical spinal cord**
- **Posterior scalp**
- **Deep neck muscles**
- Empties into the **brachiocephalic vein**, usually near where the **subclavian** and **internal jugular veins** join
- Functions as part of the **deep venous drainage** of the head and neck
56
**Superior Vena Cava (SVC)**
- Large vein that returns **deoxygenated blood** from the **upper half of the body** to the **right atrium** of the heart
- Formed by the union of the **right and left brachiocephalic veins** (which each receive blood from the subclavian and internal jugular veins)
- Drains:
- **Head and neck**
- **Upper limbs**
- **Thoracic wall**
- **Upper mediastinal structures**
- Lies to the **right of the ascending aorta** and enters the heart at the **upper posterior right atrium**
- Does **not** have valves, allowing direct venous return under low pressure
57
**Right and Left Brachiocephalic Veins**
- Formed by the union of the **subclavian vein** and **internal jugular vein** on each side
- Located posterior to the **sternoclavicular joints**
- **Right brachiocephalic vein**:
- Shorter and more vertical
- Joins left brachiocephalic vein to form the **superior vena cava (SVC)**
- **Left brachiocephalic vein**:
- Longer and more horizontal
- Crosses the midline **anterior to the branches of the aortic arch**
- Both veins drain **blood from the head, neck, upper limbs**, and **thorax** into the **SVC**
58
**Right and Left Subclavian Veins**
- Continuations of the **axillary veins** as they pass **under the clavicle**
- Travel medially and unite with the **internal jugular veins** to form the **right and left brachiocephalic veins**
59
**Right and Left Cephalic Veins**
- Superficial veins of the **upper limb**
- Run along the **anterolateral aspect** of the arm and forearm
- Begin at the **lateral side of the dorsal venous network** of the hand
- Ascend along the **lateral biceps**, traveling through the **deltopectoral groove**
- Drain into the **axillary vein** (or sometimes directly into the subclavian vein)
- Drain:
- **Lateral forearm and arm**
- **Superficial tissues of the upper limb**
- Common site for **IV access** or **venipuncture**
60
**Right and Left Median Cubital Veins**
- Superficial veins located in the **anterior elbow region (cubital fossa)**
- Connect the **cephalic vein** (lateral side) to the **basilic vein** (medial side)
- Commonly used for:
- **Venipuncture** (drawing blood)
- **IV catheter placement**
- Location:
- Lies superficial to the **bicipital aponeurosis**
- Easily visible and accessible in most individuals
- Serves as a **cross-connection** between the superficial venous systems of the upper limb
61
**Axillary Vein**
- Deep vein of the **upper limb**
- Formed by the union of the **brachial veins** and the **basilic vein** at the lower border of the **teres major muscle**
- Ascends through the **axilla**, medial to the **axillary artery**
- Receives blood from:
- **Cephalic vein** (near the deltopectoral triangle)
- **Thoracoepigastric and other tributaries** from the shoulder and chest wall
- Continues as the **subclavian vein** at the **lateral border of the first rib**
- Drains **deep and superficial structures** of the **upper limb, shoulder, and lateral thoracic wall**
62
*right side - median cubital vein "crosses" cephalic vein crosses with the radius (thumb side) of forarm*
*left side - cephalic (60) runs to thumb. Basilic at arrow. Middle vein is antebrachial vein. median cubital vein connects basilic and cephalic*
*brachial vein - truncated vein -> deep vein -> recieves blood from ulnar and radial vein*
**Right and Left Basilic Veins**
- **Superficial veins** of the **upper limb**
- Begin on the **medial (ulnar) side** of the **dorsal venous network** of the hand
- Ascend along the **medial forearm and arm**, remaining superficial until mid-arm
- At the **mid-arm**, pierce the **deep fascia** and join with **brachial veins** to help form the **axillary vein**
- Drain:
- **Medial hand, forearm**, and **arm**
- Contribute to **venous return** from superficial tissues of the upper limb
- Frequently connected to the **cephalic vein** via the **median cubital vein**
63
**Right and Left Brachial Veins**
- **Deep veins** that accompany the **brachial artery** in the **arm**
- Usually exist as a pair of **venae comitantes** (paired veins that run alongside an artery)
- Formed by the union of the **radial and ulnar veins** near the elbow
- Ascend through the **arm**, traveling with the brachial artery
- Join with the **basilic vein** to form the **axillary vein** near the lower border of the **teres major muscle**
- Drain:
- **Deep structures of the arm**
- Receive tributaries from **muscles**, **periosteum**, and **joint structures**
64
Radial Vein
**Radial Vein**
- **Location**: Lateral forearm (thumb side), runs parallel to the **radial artery**
- **Type**: Deep vein
- **Function**: Drains blood from the **lateral hand and forearm**
- **Drainage Pathway**: Joins with the **ulnar vein** to form the **brachial vein**
65
Vein median to arrow
*arrow is on the median antebrachial vein. The ulnar vein runs directly bellow the ulnar artery*
**Ulnar Vein**
- **Location**: Medial forearm (pinky side), runs with the **ulnar artery**
- **Type**: Deep vein
- **Function**: Drains the **medial hand and forearm**
- **Origin**: Arises from **deep venous palmar arch**
- **Drainage Pathway**: Joins the **radial vein** to form the **brachial vein**
66
**Azygos Vein**
- Unpaired vein running along the **right side of the thoracic vertebral column**
- Drains **deoxygenated blood** from the **posterior thoracic wall**, **lumbar region**, and **upper lumbar veins**
- Receives blood from:
- **Right posterior intercostal veins**
- **Hemiazygos and accessory hemiazygos veins** (from the left side)
- Arches over the **right main bronchus** at the **root of the lung** and empties into the **superior vena cava**
- Functions as a **collateral pathway** between the **inferior and superior vena cava** (important if either becomes obstructed)
67
**Posterior Intercostal Veins**
- Drain **deoxygenated blood** from the **intercostal spaces** (muscles and skin between the ribs)
- Drainage pattern:
- **Right side** → drain directly into the **azygos vein**
- **Left side** → drain into the **hemiazygos** and **accessory hemiazygos veins**, which then cross to join the **azygos vein**
- Travel alongside the **posterior intercostal arteries** and **intercostal nerves** within the **costal groove** of each rib
- Help return venous blood from the **thoracic wall** to the **superior vena cava**
68
**Hemiazygos Vein**
- Vein located on the **left side of the vertebral column**, opposite the **azygos vein**
- Drains **lower left posterior intercostal veins**, **esophageal veins**, and **mediastinal veins**
- Ascends through the **lower thoracic region**, then **crosses to the right** at around **T8–T9** to drain into the **azygos vein**
- Functions as part of the **collateral venous system** between the **inferior vena cava (IVC)** and **superior vena cava (SVC)**
- Complements the **azygos system** in draining the **thoracic wall and posterior mediastinum**
69
**Inferior Vena Cava (IVC)**
- Large **unpaired vein** that returns **deoxygenated blood** from the **lower body** to the **right atrium** of the heart
- Formed by the union of the **right and left common iliac veins** at **L5**
- Ascends to the right of the aorta through the **abdominal cavity** and passes through the **caval opening of the diaphragm (T8)**
- Drains:
- **Lower limbs**
- **Pelvis**
- **Abdominal wall**
- **Kidneys**, **liver**, and **gonads**
- No valves (except near its junction with the right atrium)
- Main conduit for venous return from the body **below the diaphragm**
70
*#19*
*18 hepatic portal veins - purple on our model*
**Hepatic Veins**
- Veins that **drain deoxygenated, filtered blood** from the **liver** into the **inferior vena cava (IVC)**
- Usually consist of **three main veins**: right, middle, and left hepatic veins
**GI organs -> hepatic portal vein -> liver -> hepatic veins -> inferior vena cava**
*common hepatic arrtery branch of celiac trunk -> becomes -> proper heaptic artery*
71
**Splenic Vein**
- Drains **deoxygenated, nutrient-rich blood** from the **spleen**, as well as parts of the **stomach** and **pancreas**
- Runs posterior to the **pancreas**
- Joins the **superior mesenteric vein** to form the **hepatic portal vein**
- Receives tributaries from:
- **Short gastric veins** (stomach)
- **Left gastroepiploic vein**
- **Pancreatic veins**
- **Inferior mesenteric vein** (drains hindgut; may drain here or into SMV)
- Part of the **hepatic portal system**, directing blood to the **liver for detoxification and nutrient processing**
72
**Renal Veins (Right and Left)**
- Drain **deoxygenated blood** from the **kidneys** into the **inferior vena cava (IVC)**
- **Left renal vein**:
- Longer than the right
- Passes **anterior to the aorta** and **beneath the superior mesenteric artery**
- Receives additional tributaries from the **left adrenal gland**, **left gonadal vein**, and sometimes the **left inferior phrenic vein**
- **Right renal vein**:
- Shorter and drains **directly into the IVC**
- Drains the **right kidney** and **right adrenal gland**
- Function: Return **filtered blood** from the kidneys to systemic circulation
73
**Common Iliac Veins (Right and Left)**
- Formed by the union of the **internal and external iliac veins** on each side
- Located in the **pelvic cavity**
- **Right and left common iliac veins** join at the level of **L5** to form the **inferior vena cava (IVC)**
- **Right common iliac vein**:
- Shorter and more vertical
- Drains directly into the IVC
- **Left common iliac vein**:
- Longer and passes beneath the **right common iliac artery**, which may cause compression (May-Thurner syndrome)
- Function: Drain **deoxygenated blood** from the **pelvis and lower limbs** into the **IVC**
74
**Internal Iliac Vein (Right and Left)**
- Drains **venous blood** from the **pelvic organs**, **pelvic wall**, **gluteal region**, and **perineum**
- Joins with the **external iliac vein** to form the **common iliac vein**
- Receives tributaries from:
- **Superior and inferior gluteal veins**
- **Internal pudendal vein**
- **Obturator vein**
- **Vesical, rectal, uterine, and vaginal veins (in females)**
- Plays a key role in **pelvic and reproductive system venous drainage**
75
**External Iliac Vein (Right and Left)**
- Continuation of the **femoral vein** as it enters the **pelvic cavity**
- Joins with the **internal iliac vein** to form the **common iliac vein**
- Drains:
- **Lower limbs**
- Portions of the **lower abdominal wall**
- Travels along the **pelvic brim**, medial to the **external iliac artery**
76
**Lumbar Veins**
- Paired veins that drain the **posterior abdominal wall**, **vertebral muscles**, and **spinal cord**
- Usually **four pairs** on each side, corresponding to **lumbar vertebrae L1–L4**
- Drain into:
- **Inferior vena cava (IVC)** directly
- Or into the **ascending lumbar vein**, which may connect with the **azygos system** (right) or **hemiazygos system** (left)
- Serve as important **collateral pathways** between the **lower body** and **thoracic venous system**, especially during IVC obstruction
77
**Gonadal Veins (Right and Left)**
- Drainage pattern:
- **Right gonadal vein** → drains directly into the **inferior vena cava (IVC)**
- **Left gonadal vein** → drains into the **left renal vein**, then into the IVC
- Function: Return blood from the **testes or ovaries** to the systemic circulation
78
**Femoral Vein**
- Major deep vein of the **thigh**
- Located **medial** to the femoral artery in the femoral triangle
- Drains blood from the **deep thigh**, **leg**, and **foot**
*Receives blood from:*
- **Deep femoral vein**
- **Great saphenous vein**
- **Popliteal vein** (as it ascends from the posterior knee)
*Drains into:*
- **External iliac vein** as it passes under the inguinal ligament
79
*20*
*21 right femoral*
*18 right external iliac*
**Deep Femoral Vein** (also called **Profunda Femoris Vein**)
- Large deep vein running parallel to the **deep femoral artery**
- Drains blood from the **deep structures of the thigh** (e.g. muscles and femur)
- Joins the **femoral vein** superiorly in the upper thigh
*Receives blood from:*
- **Perforating veins** of the posterior and medial thigh
*Drains into:*
- **Femoral vein**
80
**Great Saphenous Vein**
- **Longest vein** in the body
- Runs superficially along the **medial aspect** of the leg and thigh
- Empties into the **femoral vein** just inferior to the inguinal ligament
81
*69 great saphenous vein*
**Small Saphenous Vein**
- **Superficial vein** of the lower leg
- Drains the **posterior and lateral** surfaces of the leg
- Typically empties into the **popliteal vein** (located in the popliteal fossa behind the knee)
*Pathway:*
- Begins at the **lateral side** of the **dorsal venous arch** of the foot
- Ascends **posterior to the lateral malleolus**
- Travels up the **midline of the posterior leg**
- Pierces deep fascia to join the **popliteal vein**
82
**Popliteal Vein**
- Formed by the union of the **anterior tibial**, **posterior tibial**, and **fibular veins**
- Becomes the **femoral vein** as it passes through the **adductor hiatus** into the thigh
*Receives blood from:*
- **Small saphenous vein**
83
**Fibular Vein** (also called **Peroneal Vein**)
- **Deep vein** located in the **posterior compartment** of the leg
- Runs parallel to the **fibular (peroneal) artery**, near the **lateral side** of the leg
- Drains:
- **Lateral and posterior compartments** of the leg
- Deep muscles and connective tissue
- Joins the **posterior tibial vein**, which then contributes to the **popliteal vein**
- Functions as part of the **deep venous return** system of the **lower limb**
84
**Anterior Tibial Vein**
- **Deep vein** located in the **anterior compartment** of the leg
- Runs alongside the **anterior tibial artery**
- Joins with the **posterior tibial vein** to form the **popliteal vein**
*Femoral vein -> Popliteal vein (small saphenous and anterior tibial branch from popliteal) -> posterior tibial (fibular branches)*
85
**Posterior Tibial Vein**
- **Deep vein** located in the **posterior compartment** of the leg
- Runs with the **posterior tibial artery**, near the **medial malleolus**
- Drains:
- **Posterior leg and plantar surface** of the foot
- Receives the **fibular vein** as a tributary
- Joins the **anterior tibial vein** to form the **popliteal vein**
86
**Dorsal Pedis Veins** (Dorsalis Pedis artery)
- **Paired deep veins** that accompany the **dorsalis pedis artery** on the **dorsum of the foot**
- Begin from the **dorsal venous arch**
- Drain:
- **Dorsal surface of the foot**
- **Toes**
- Continue proximally as the **anterior tibial veins**
- Part of the **deep venous system** of the lower limb, contributing to return flow from the foot toward the heart
87
**Superior Mesenteric Vein (SMV)**
- Drains **nutrient-rich, deoxygenated blood** from **midgut-derived structures**
- Travels alongside the **superior mesenteric artery**
- Drains:
- **Small intestine (jejunum and ileum)**
- **Cecum and appendix**
- **Ascending colon**
- **Proximal 2/3 of the transverse colon**
- Joins the **splenic vein** to form the **hepatic portal vein**
88
**Inferior Mesenteric Vein (IMV)**
- Drains **hindgut-derived structures**
- Typically empties into the **splenic vein** (may vary)
- Drains:
- **Distal 1/3 of the transverse colon**
- **Descending colon**
- **Sigmoid colon**
- **Upper rectum**
- Ultimately contributes to formation of the **hepatic portal vein**
89
*blue arrow*
**left gastric vein**
**Gastric Veins**
- Drain blood from the **stomach** into the **hepatic portal vein**
- Includes:
1. **Left gastric vein** → drains **lesser curvature** of stomach; joins **portal vein** directly
2. **Right gastric vein** → also drains **lesser curvature**; joins **portal vein**
3. **Short gastric veins** → drain **fundus** of stomach into **splenic vein**
4. **Left and right gastroepiploic veins** → drain **greater curvature**
- **Right gastroepiploic** → into **superior mesenteric vein**
- **Left gastroepiploic** → into **splenic vein**
*Clinical Note*: The **left gastric vein** is involved in **portal-systemic anastomoses** (e.g., esophageal varices in portal hypertension).
90
*4*
**Umbilical Vein**
- Carries **oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood** from the **placenta to the fetus**
- Enters the fetus at the **umbilicus** and travels toward the **liver**
- Bypasses liver via the **ductus venosus**, which drains into the **inferior vena cava**
- Postnatally becomes the **ligamentum teres hepatis** (round ligament of the liver)
91
*5*
**Umbilical Arteries**
- Paired arteries that carry **deoxygenated blood** from the **fetus to the placenta**
- Arise from the **internal iliac arteries**
- Travel along the umbilical cord to the placenta
- After birth, they degenerate:
- **Proximal portion** remains as part of the **superior vesical arteries**
- **Distal portion** becomes **medial umbilical ligaments**
92
*3*
**Ductus Venosus**
- Fetal vessel that **shunts oxygenated blood** from the **umbilical vein** directly to the **inferior vena cava**
- Allows blood to **bypass the liver** and flow toward the **heart and brain**
- Ensures rapid delivery of highly oxygenated blood from placenta to vital organs
- Functionally closes shortly after birth
- Becomes the **ligamentum venosum** in the adult liver
93
*2*
**Foramen Ovale**
- Opening in the **interatrial septum** of the fetal heart
- Allows **oxygenated blood** to flow directly from the **right atrium** to the **left atrium**, bypassing the **non-functional fetal lungs**
- Helps deliver oxygen-rich blood from the placenta to the **systemic circulation**
- Functionally closes shortly after birth due to increased **left atrial pressure**
- Anatomically closes over time and becomes the **fossa ovalis** in the adult heart
94
*1*
**Ductus Arteriosus**
- Fetal vessel that connects the **pulmonary trunk** to the **aortic arch**
- Allows most of the **right ventricular output** to **bypass the non-functioning fetal lungs**
- Shunts blood directly into the **systemic circulation**
- Functionally closes within hours to days after birth due to increased oxygen levels and decreased prostaglandins
- Becomes the **ligamentum arteriosum** in the adult
- Failure to close after birth results in a condition called **patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)**
