Milzvene

Milzvene, known in anatomy as the splenic vein, is a major tributary of the portal venous system. It drains venous blood from the spleen and parts of the stomach and pancreas, and delivers it to the portal vein. The vein runs along the posterior surface of the pancreas within the splenorenal ligament, typically to the left of the superior mesenteric vessels. At the level of the pancreas’ neck, the splenic vein joins the superior mesenteric vein to form the portal vein.

The splenic vein receives several tributaries, including the short gastric veins from the stomach fundus, the left gastroepiploic vein, and pancreatic veins. The inferior mesenteric vein commonly drains into the splenic vein, though variations exist.

Functionally, the Milzvene is part of the hepatic portal circulation, carrying blood from the spleen and adjacent organs to the liver for processing.

Clinical significance: Splenic vein thrombosis is a potential complication, most often associated with pancreatitis, pancreatic neoplasms, or abdominal trauma. It can cause left-sided portal hypertension, leading to isolated gastric varices and splenomegaly. Inflammation or tumor invasion of the pancreas can compromise venous flow, with potential consequences for splenic drainage and collateral circulation.

Development and variations: While the described path is typical, anatomical variations exist in tributaries and exact course. Imaging modalities such as CT or MRI are used to evaluate splenic vein patency in suspected disorders.