Uterine vein
Vein of the uterus From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The uterine vein is a vein of the uterus. It is found in the cardinal ligament. It drains into the internal iliac vein. It follows a similar course to the uterine artery. It helps to drain blood from the uterus, and removes waste from blood in the placenta during pregnancy.
| Uterine vein | |
|---|---|
Vessels of the uterus and its appendages, rear view. | |
| Details | |
| Drains from | Uterus |
| Source | Uterine venous plexus |
| Drains to | Internal iliac vein |
| Artery | Uterine artery |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | vena uterina (plural: venae uterinae) |
| TA98 | A12.3.10.015F |
| TA2 | 5046 |
| FMA | 75394 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
Structure
The uterine vein is found in the cardinal ligament of the uterus. It travels through the broad ligament of the uterus to the lateral abdominal wall.[1] It drains into the internal iliac vein.[1][2]
The uterine vein forms a venous plexus around the cervix.[2] It follows a similar course to the uterine artery.[3] Lymphatic vessels are associated with it.[1] It also anastomoses with the ovarian vein.[2] It may anastomose with the vaginal venous plexus.[1]
Function
The uterine vein helps to drain blood from the uterus.[4] This is also important for the removal of waste from blood in the placenta during pregnancy.[4]
Clinical significance
Placenta measurement
Measurements of the partial pressure of O2 in the uterine vein can be used as an analogue of the partial pressure of O2 in the placenta.[5] This may be measured during Caesarian section.[5]
Embolism
Very rarely, amniotic fluid may enter a uterine vein during childbirth.[6] This is a rare cause of an embolism.[6]
Other animals
The uterine vein may be very different in non-human animals.[7] In rats, it drains into the common iliac vein.[7]
References
External links
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