Vessel
Splenic vein
Posterior pancreatic vein joining the portal confluence
High-yield
Its pancreatic relation is close and relatively straight. The inferior mesenteric vein often joins it, but that junction is variable.
Overview
Tributaries from the spleen form a venous channel that runs rightward behind the pancreas. Gastric and pancreatic tributaries join it before its union with the SMV behind the pancreatic neck creates the usual portal-vein origin.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Forms from veins leaving the splenic hilum; their number varies.
- Course
- Passes rightward along the posterior pancreas toward the portal confluence.
- Branches
- Receives pancreatic, short gastric and left gastro-omental tributaries, and commonly the inferior mesenteric vein.
- Supplies
- Drains the spleen and portions of stomach and pancreas.
- Drains to
- Usually joins the SMV behind the pancreatic neck to form the portal vein.
Clinical correlation
Pancreatic disease can cause isolated splenic vein thrombosis. The resulting left-sided portal hypertension may produce gastric varices even when overall liver function is preserved; not every thrombosis becomes symptomatic.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the splenic vein originate?
Forms from veins leaving the splenic hilum; their number varies.
What territory does the splenic vein serve?
Drains the spleen and portions of stomach and pancreas.
Where does the splenic vein drain to?
Usually joins the SMV behind the pancreatic neck to form the portal vein.
What are the branches of the splenic vein?
Receives pancreatic, short gastric and left gastro-omental tributaries, and commonly the inferior mesenteric vein.