The portal vein is formed by the confluence of two vessels behind the neck of the pancreas. Which two vessels form it?

• A Superior mesenteric vein and inferior mesenteric vein
• B Superior mesenteric vein and splenic vein ✓
• C Splenic vein and left gastric vein
• D Inferior mesenteric vein and left renal vein

Explanation

The portal vein is formed by the union of the superior mesenteric vein and splenic vein, posterior to the neck of the pancreas. The inferior mesenteric vein typically drains into the splenic vein (or sometimes the SMV or their junction). The portal vein then ascends in the free edge of the lesser omentum (hepatoduodenal ligament) to the porta hepatis. Clinically, the relation of the portal vein to the neck of the pancreas explains why pancreatic carcinoma can cause portal hypertension.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.