Inferior Vena Cava
The Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) is a large vein in the human body that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower half back to the heart. It runs alongside the spine and collects blood from the legs, pelvis, and abdominal organs. The IVC is crucial for returning blood to the right atrium of the heart, where it can be sent to the lungs for oxygenation.
The IVC is formed by the merging of the left and right common iliac veins, which drain blood from the lower limbs. It is one of the two main veins in the body, the other being the Superior Vena Cava, which carries blood from the upper body. Proper functioning of the IVC is essential for maintaining healthy circulation.