subsegmental pulmonary vein

A vein that is tributary of the segmental pulmonary veins and drains oxygenated blood from a subsegment of the lung.

Type Bone
Parent Structure lung blood vessel
FMA ID 9413

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a subsegmental pulmonary vein?
A subsegmental pulmonary vein is a small pulmonary vein that drains oxygenated blood from a subsegment of the lung and empties into a segmental pulmonary vein, which in turn contributes to the main pulmonary veins returning blood to the left atrium.
What is the difference between a subsegmental and a segmental pulmonary vein?
A segmental pulmonary vein drains an entire bronchopulmonary segment of the lung, while a subsegmental pulmonary vein drains a smaller subdivision of that segment. Subsegmental veins converge to form segmental veins, which then form the larger lobar and main pulmonary veins.
Why do pulmonary veins carry oxygenated blood?
The pulmonary veins are unique among veins in carrying oxygenated blood. After blood passes through the pulmonary capillaries where gas exchange occurs, it picks up oxygen from inhaled air and releases carbon dioxide. This oxygenated blood then flows into pulmonary venules and veins, ultimately returning to the left atrium.
How are subsegmental pulmonary veins identified on imaging?
On high-resolution CT scans of the chest, subsegmental pulmonary veins appear as small branching vascular structures within the lung parenchyma. Unlike bronchi and arteries which travel together in bronchoarterial bundles, pulmonary veins run interlobularly and are identified by their independent course away from the bronchi.
What is the clinical importance of subsegmental pulmonary veins in lung surgery?
During anatomic lung resection, surgeons must identify and preserve or ligate subsegmental and segmental pulmonary veins. Inadvertent division of a vein draining a retained segment can cause venous congestion and infarction of that segment, while preserving correct venous drainage ensures adequate perfusion of the remaining lung tissue.

Related Structures

1st arch mandibular component ventral mandibular arch 1st arch mandibular ectoderm ectoderm of mandibular component 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme mandibular component mesenchyme 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme from head mesenchyme 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme from neural crest 1st arch maxillary component 1st arch maxillary ectoderm ectoderm of maxillary component 1st arch maxillary-mandibular cleft 1st arch maxillary-mandibular groove ectoderm

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.