Corpus: Posterior spinal vein

The posterior spinal veins are longitudinal veins located on the dorsal side of the spinal cord, classified as superficial veins of the cord.

see also: Anterior spinal vein

The posterior spinal veins accompany the two posterior spinal arteries, and their anatomy can vary. Typically, 1 to 3 veins may be present depending on the segment. The central vessel is known as the posterior median spinal vein, while the lateral vessels are called lateral posterior spinal veins. These veins run along the spinal cord in a meandering pattern, with the central vein aligned with the posterior median sulcus. Horizontal cross-connections allow drainage into the posterior radicular veins, which in turn flow into the posterior portions of the internal vertebral venous plexus.

The posterior spinal veins are responsible for collecting blood from the dorsal regions of the spinal cord.

Disorders or blockages in the posterior spinal veins can result in venous congestion within the spinal cord, potentially leading to spinal cord damage.