Uterovaginal plexus drains uterine and vaginal veins into the internal iliac veins.
The uterovaginal venous plexus is a rich network of interconnected veins that surrounds the uterus and vagina. It is part of the extensive pelvic venous system in females and is responsible for draining blood from the uterus, vagina, and portions of the urinary bladder. This plexus lies within the broad ligament and communicates freely with neighboring venous plexuses, including the vesical, rectal, and ovarian plexuses. Its valveless structure facilitates venous communication but also allows for the potential retrograde spread of infection or malignancy.
The uterovaginal venous plexus is a dual venous network composed of the uterine and vaginal venous plexuses. These plexuses interconnect extensively and form a unified drainage system. The veins are valveless and often difficult to distinguish surgically due to their close proximity to surrounding structures and their plexiform arrangement.
The uterovaginal plexus lies within the broad ligament of the uterus and extends laterally to the pelvic wall. The uterine portion surrounds the sides of the uterus and cervix, while the vaginal portion envelops the lateral walls of the vagina. Together, they drain into the internal iliac vein through various tributaries.
Direction | Anatomical Relations |
---|---|
Medial | Uterus and vagina |
Lateral | Pelvic wall and internal iliac vessels |
Superior | Broad ligament and uterine tubes |
Inferior | Communicates with rectal venous plexus |