The right pulmonary veins (RPVs) are an essential component of the pulmonary circulation and play an important role in the circulation of blood in the lungs. These veins carry blood from the capillaries of the lungs back to the left atrium, from where it then passes into the left ventricle for subsequent release into the systemic circulation.
Location of right pulmonary veins:
The right pulmonary veins form a group of three canals that are located in the intercostal space between the fourth and fifth costal cartilages: - Right superior pulmonary vein (SPV) - carries blood from the lower segments of both lungs to the right atrium. - Middle pulmonary vein - passes through the central part of the lungs and carries blood from the upper segments of the lungs, usually the left lung. It usually joins the right superior pulmonary vein shortly before its confluence with the inferior vein. - Inferior pulmonary vein - runs along the posterior surface of the lungs and connects the lower segments of both lungs with the left atrium.
Importance of the pulmonary right vessels
The veins of the pulmonary trunk, including the right pulmonary veins, have several important functions:
One of the main functions of the LPV is to ensure continuous and efficient circulation of air in the lungs. Under normal conditions, the arteries of the lungs do not come into contact with the capillaries, which creates conditions for the movement of air through the capillaries. The pulmonary veins help in regulating pressure in the lungs by draining blood from the blood capillaries back into the main pulmonary artery. The right pulmonary vein also provides drainage for extra-alveolar fluid that forms inside the airways and airway tubes of the lungs during breathing.
Pathologies of the pulmonary right arteries:
The following pathologies can occur in the pulmonary trunk, including the right vein:
Pulmonary Embolism: The main causes of pulmonary embolism are occlusion (blockage) at the site where the lungs communicate with the walls of the aorta and/or small cardiac veins. Typically, this occurs due to blockage of air bubbles or particles and other objects from outside the body. When air or blood blocks blood circulation, it leads to inflammation and destruction of the vascular walls, as well as the release of red and white blood cells beyond the pulmonary capillaries into the lumen of the aortic bed of the pulmonary arteries. When the damage becomes severe, the lungs may begin to fail