Venous portal systems Flashcards
1
Q
What are venous portal systems?
A
Venous portal systems are found within the systemic circuit and consist of two capillary beds connected through a system of veins.
Examples of venous portal systems are the hepatic portal system system in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the hypophyseal portal system between the hypothalamus and the pituitary within the brain.
2
Q
What is the function of the hepatic portal system?
A
The hepatic portal system transports blood from parts of the GI tract to the liver via the hepatic portal vein, so absorbed substances can be processed before continuing to the heart.
The hepatic veins drain into the inferior vena cava.
