The inferior mesenteric vein merges with the
splenic vein, posterior to the middle of the body of the
pancreas. The splenic vein then merges with the
superior mesenteric vein to form the
portal vein.
Tributaries Tributaries of the inferior mesenteric vein drain the
large intestine,
sigmoid colon and
rectum. These include: •
left colic vein •
sigmoid veins •
superior rectal vein • rectosigmoid veins
Variation Anatomical variations include the inferior mesenteric vein draining into the confluence of the superior mesenteric vein
and splenic vein and the inferior mesenteric vein draining in the superior mesenteric vein. == Clinical significance ==