On a CT scan of the abdomen at the level of the transpyloric plane (L1), which structure lies immediately posterior to the neck of the pancreas?
- A Superior mesenteric vein ✓
- B Inferior vena cava
- C Splenic vein
- D Portal vein
Correct answer: A. Superior mesenteric vein
Explanation
The superior mesenteric vein (SMV) runs directly posterior to the neck of the pancreas; the SMV joins the splenic vein here to form the portal vein. The neck of the pancreas is the narrowest part, resting in the groove formed by the SMV. The IVC is posterior to the pancreatic head, not the neck. The portal vein forms just posterior to the neck but is the result of the SMV-splenic vein junction, not positioned immediately behind it.
Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.