Intercostal vein
Intercostal Vein
The Intercostal Vein (pronunciation: in-ter-kos-tal vayn) is a significant part of the human anatomy that plays a crucial role in the circulatory system.
Etymology
The term "Intercostal" is derived from the Latin words "inter" meaning between and "costa" meaning rib. Thus, the term refers to the space between the ribs where these veins are located.
Definition
The Intercostal Vein is a part of the vein system that drains the thorax area, specifically the space between the ribs. There are typically eleven intercostal veins on each side of the body, each corresponding to an intercostal space. These veins are responsible for returning deoxygenated blood from the chest wall and abdomen back to the heart.
Structure
The Intercostal Veins are divided into three sets: the anterior, posterior, and supreme intercostal veins. The anterior intercostal veins drain into the internal thoracic vein, while the posterior intercostal veins drain into the azygos vein and hemiazygos vein. The supreme intercostal vein, found only in the first intercostal space, drains into the brachiocephalic vein.
Function
The primary function of the Intercostal Veins is to carry deoxygenated blood from the intercostal muscles back to the heart. They also play a role in the drainage of the thoracic wall and upper abdominal wall.
Related Terms
- Vein: A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart.
- Thorax: The part of the body between the neck and the abdomen, enclosed by the ribs and the sternum.
- Ribs: The long curved bones which form the rib cage, providing protection to the thoracic organs.
- Internal thoracic vein: A vein that drains the anterior thoracic wall and the anterior part of the diaphragm.
- Azygos vein: A vein running up the right side of the thoracic vertebral column draining itself towards the superior vena cava.
- Hemiazygos vein: A vein running up the left side of the thoracic vertebral column draining itself towards the azygos vein.
- Brachiocephalic vein: Veins formed by the union of the internal jugular and subclavian veins.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Intercostal vein
- Wikipedia's article - Intercostal vein
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