The term "vena haemorrhoidalis" refers to the blood vessels running through the anal region. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Vena" is pronounced as /ˈvɛnə/, "haemorrhoidalis" as /hɛˌmɔrɔɪˈdeɪlɪs/ with the emphasis on the second syllable. The spelling of "haemorrhoidalis" shows the word's Greek roots and the use of the suffix "-alis" means pertaining to or relating to, hence "vena haemorrhoidalis" meaning "relating to the veins in the anal region".
Vena haemorrhoidalis, also referred to as the hemorrhoidal vein, is a vessel that forms part of the circulatory system. It is specifically associated with the anatomical structure known as the haemorrhoidal plexus, which is a network of veins located within the rectum and anus.
The vena haemorrhoidalis serves a crucial role in the drainage of blood from the lower rectum and anal canal. It is responsible for collecting deoxygenated blood from the different hemorrhoidal veins, which are branches of the superior rectal veins and middle rectal veins. The vena haemorrhoidalis then transports this blood away from the rectal area and into the systemic circulation, ultimately sending it back to the heart for oxygenation.
Pathologically, the veins in the haemorrhoidal plexus can become dilated and swollen, leading to the condition commonly known as hemorrhoids or piles. This occurs when there is excessive pressure or strain on the rectal area, commonly caused by chronic constipation, pregnancy, obesity, or prolonged periods of sitting. The engorged vena haemorrhoidalis, coupled with weakened or stretched rectal tissues, often results in symptoms such as pain, itching, bleeding, and possible prolapse.
In summary, the vena haemorrhoidalis is a vein that plays a critical role in the circulation of blood in the lower rectum and anus. Its proper functioning is essential for the efficient drainage of blood, while its pathologic changes can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoidal vein, see plexus haemorrhoidalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "vena haemorrhoidalis" is derived from Latin.
- "Vena" comes from the Latin word "vēna", meaning "vein".
- "Haemorrhoidalis" comes from the Latin word "haemorrhoides", which originated from the Greek word "haimorrhoïdes", meaning "hemorrhoids".
Therefore, "vena haemorrhoidalis" can be translated as "vein of the hemorrhoids" or "hemorrhoidal vein".