The portal vein is formed by the union of the superior mesenteric vein and splenic vein behind which structure?

• A Head of the pancreas
• B Body of the pancreas at the level of L1
• C First part of the duodenum
• D Neck of the pancreas ✓

Explanation

The portal vein forms behind the neck of the pancreas by the confluence of the superior mesenteric vein (coming from the right) and the splenic vein (coming from the left). The inferior mesenteric vein typically drains into the splenic vein just before this junction. This anatomical relationship is why carcinoma of the pancreatic neck/body causes early portal vein compression or thrombosis. The portal vein then ascends in the free edge of the lesser omentum (hepatoduodenal ligament) with the hepatic artery (to its left) and common bile duct (to its right).

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.