Vena cava meaning

Vena cava is a large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the body back to the heart.


Vena cava definitions

Word backwards anev avac
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ve-na ca-va
Plural The plural of vena cava is venae cavae.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) e,a
Consonants (3) v,n,c

Major veins in the human body, the vena cavae are crucial in returning deoxygenated blood from the body to the heart. The superior vena cava carries blood from the upper body to the right atrium of the heart, while the inferior vena cava transports blood from the lower body to the heart.

Structure of Vena Cava

The vena cava is the largest vein in the human body, with the superior vena cava located above the heart and the inferior vena cava situated below the heart. These veins play a pivotal role in maintaining proper blood circulation throughout the body.

Function of Vena Cava

The primary function of the vena cava is to collect deoxygenated blood from the body's tissues and organs and transport it back to the heart. This blood is then redirected to the lungs for oxygenation before being circulated to the rest of the body.

Physiological Importance

Without the vena cava, the body would not be able to effectively remove deoxygenated blood and replenish it with oxygenated blood. This vital process ensures that all organs and tissues receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen for proper function.

Vena cava is a Latin term that means "hollow vein," highlighting the structure of these important blood vessels. The word cavae is the plural form of cava, emphasizing the presence of two major vena cavae in the human body.


Vena cava Examples

  1. The superior vena cava carries deoxygenated blood from the upper body to the heart.
  2. During open-heart surgery, the surgeon must carefully work around the vena cava to avoid causing damage.
  3. A blood clot in the inferior vena cava can lead to serious health complications.
  4. The vena cava is the largest vein in the human body.
  5. An ultrasound can be used to visualize the vena cava and monitor blood flow.
  6. The vena cava acts as a main thoroughfare for blood returning to the heart.
  7. Dilation of the vena cava can occur due to increased pressure in the vein.
  8. A blockage in the vena cava can result in swelling and discomfort in the legs.
  9. The vena cava is essential for maintaining proper circulation throughout the body.
  10. Doctors may use a stent to keep the vena cava open and improve blood flow.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 30/03/2024 - 17:53:20