The left gastric vein (or coronary vein) is a vein that derives from tributaries draining the lesser curvature of the stomach.
Structure
The left gastric vein runs from right to left along the lesser curvature of the
stomach.
It passes to the
esophagus opening of the stomach, where it receives some
.
It then turns backward and passes from left to right behind the
omental bursa. It drains into the
portal vein near the superior border of the
pancreas.
Function
The left gastric vein drains
Blood from the lesser curvature of the stomach.
It also acts as collaterals between the
portal vein and the systemic venous system of the lower esophagus (
azygos vein).
Clinical significance
The esophageal branch of the left gastric vein drains into the azygos vein. In cases of portal hypertension, this communication allows for blood to bypass the portal vein and reach systemic circulation. As a result of this anastomosis, development of esophageal and paraesophageal varices is possible.
See also
-
Portacaval anastomosis
-
Right gastric vein
External links
