The left gastric vein is a blood vessel that drains blood from the stomach. It primarily collects blood from the lesser curvature of the stomach and empties into the portal vein, which carries blood to the liver. This vein plays a crucial role in the venous drainage of the stomach. In addition to the left gastric vein, the right gastric vein also contributes to the venous system of the stomach. Both veins are important for maintaining proper blood flow and nutrient transport from the stomach to the liver, where further processing occurs.