Vessel
Inferior vena cava
Drains the lower body
High-yield
Formed by the union of the common iliac veins at L5; pierces the diaphragm at the caval hiatus (T8). Receives hepatic, renal, and gonadal veins.
Overview
The largest vein in the body, returning deoxygenated blood from the abdomen, pelvis, and lower limbs to the right atrium.
Reference facts
- Type
- Vein
- Origin
- Union of the right and left common iliac veins (L5)
- Branches / tributaries
- Receives hepatic, renal, right gonadal, and lumbar veins (tributaries)
- Drains
- Drains the lower limbs, pelvis, and abdomen into the right atrium
- Course
- Ascends on the right of the aorta, pierces the central tendon of the diaphragm at T8, and enters the right atrium
Frequently asked questions
Where does the inferior vena cava originate?
The inferior vena cava arises from the union of the right and left common iliac veins (L5).
What does the inferior vena cava drain?
The inferior vena cava drains the lower limbs, pelvis, and abdomen into the right atrium.
What are the tributaries of the inferior vena cava?
Tributaries of the inferior vena cava include the receives hepatic, renal, right gonadal, and lumbar veins (tributaries).
What is the course of the inferior vena cava?
Ascends on the right of the aorta, pierces the central tendon of the diaphragm at T8, and enters the right atrium.