Anatomy
Course
The main vein of the body. It begins when the two common iliac veins unite at the approximate vertebral level of L5. It ascends on the right side of the vertebral column, retroperitoneally and on the posterior abdominal wall. It receives a number of tributaries along its way. It drains directly into the right atrium of the heart.
Drain
The inferior vena cava is responsible for returning blood from the lower part of the body to the heart.
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