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