Vessel
Hepatic portal vein
Carries gut blood to the liver
High-yield
Formed behind the pancreatic neck by the splenic and superior mesenteric veins; portal hypertension → esophageal varices, caput medusae, and hemorrhoids.
Overview
The vein that drains nutrient-rich, deoxygenated blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver for processing.
Reference facts
- Type
- Vein (portal)
- Origin
- Union of the superior mesenteric and splenic veins
- Branches / tributaries
- Right and left branches at the porta hepatis
- Drains
- Delivers venous blood from the GI tract, spleen, pancreas, and gallbladder to the liver sinusoids
- Course
- Forms posterior to the neck of the pancreas and ascends in the hepatoduodenal ligament to the porta hepatis
Clinical correlation
Portal hypertension opens portosystemic anastomoses (esophageal varices, caput medusae, rectal varices).
Frequently asked questions
Where does the hepatic portal vein originate?
The hepatic portal vein arises from the union of the superior mesenteric and splenic veins.
What does the hepatic portal vein drain?
The hepatic portal vein delivers venous blood from the GI tract, spleen, pancreas, and gallbladder to the liver sinusoids.
What are the tributaries of the hepatic portal vein?
Tributaries of the hepatic portal vein include the right and left branches at the porta hepatis.
What is the course of the hepatic portal vein?
Forms posterior to the neck of the pancreas and ascends in the hepatoduodenal ligament to the porta hepatis.