The term "vena dorsalis linguae" is often used in anatomy to describe a vein located on the dorsum or the upper surface of the tongue. Its pronunciation in IPA phonetics is /ˈviːnə dɔːˈseɪlɪs ˈlɪŋɡweɪ/. The first syllable "ve" is pronounced as "vee", followed by "na" pronounced as "nuh". "Dorsalis" is pronounced as "dor-suh-lis" and "linguae" as "ling-gwey". The phonetic transcription guide helps to accurately pronounce and spell complex and technical terms like "vena dorsalis linguae".
Vena dorsalis linguae, commonly known as the dorsal lingual vein, is a term used to describe a blood vessel located on the upper surface or back of the tongue. This vein runs longitudinally along the midline of the tongue and is responsible for draining the venous blood from this region.
The vena dorsalis linguae is an integral component of the tongue's venous drainage system. As blood circulates through the highly vascularized tissues of the tongue, it collects waste products and deoxygenated blood. This blood then enters the vena dorsalis linguae, which acts as a major channel for its return to the systemic circulation.
The precise anatomy and structure of vena dorsalis linguae may vary slightly among individuals, but it typically originates from branches of the lingual vein or deep lingual vein located near the tip of the tongue. It runs posteriorly towards the base of the tongue, receiving tributaries from the ventral surface of the tongue along the way. Eventually, it empties into larger vessels such as the lingual vein or the internal jugular vein.
Understanding the vena dorsalis linguae's anatomy and role in venous drainage is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially dentists, oral surgeons, and other specialists practicing in the oral cavity. Knowledge of this vein is important in reducing the risk of complications during surgical procedures involving the tongue and providing effective local anesthesia.
A tributary of the lingualis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.