Spinal veins

Spinal veins are veins that drain blood from the vertebral column. They are part of the vertebral venous plexus, a network of veins that runs inside and outside the vertebral column.

Etymology

The term "spinal" comes from the Latin word "spina," which means "thorn" or "backbone." The term "vein" comes from the Latin word "vena," which means "blood vessel."

Anatomy

The spinal veins are divided into three groups: the internal vertebral venous plexuses, the external vertebral venous plexuses, and the basivertebral veins.

The internal vertebral venous plexuses are located inside the vertebral canal, running along the posterior and anterior surfaces of the vertebral bodies. They drain blood from the vertebral bodies, the spinal cord, and its meninges.

The external vertebral venous plexuses are located outside the vertebral canal, running along the anterior and posterior surfaces of the vertebral bodies. They drain blood from the vertebral bodies, the intervertebral discs, and the spinal nerves.

The basivertebral veins are located inside the vertebral bodies, draining blood from their inner parts.

Function

The spinal veins drain deoxygenated blood from the vertebral column and return it to the heart. They also play a role in the cooling of the spinal cord, as the blood they carry away helps to dissipate heat generated by the spinal cord's metabolic activities.

Clinical significance

Diseases and conditions that can affect the spinal veins include vertebral osteomyelitis, spinal cord infarction, and spinal epidural abscess. These conditions can lead to serious complications, including paralysis and death, if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

See also

• Vertebral artery
• Vertebral column
• Vertebral venous plexus

References

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