What is the inferior vena cava?
The large lower-body vein is called the inferior vena cava. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as the largest vein in the body.
What it is
- The largest vein in the body.
- Formed by the union of the two common iliac veins.
- Carries blood from the lower body back to the heart.
Where it is
- To the right of the aorta, in front of the vertebral column.
- Passes through the diaphragm to reach the right atrium.
- Receives the hepatic veins from the liver just below the diaphragm.
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Last verified: 2026-07-18
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