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portal vein n a large vein that is formed by fusion of other veins, that terminates in a capillary network, and that delivers blood to some area of the body other than the heart esp HEPATIC PORTAL VEIN
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a short vein, about 8 cm long, forming part of the hepatic portal system. It receives many tributaries, including the splenic vein from the spleen and pancreas, the gastric vein from the stomach, the mesenteric vein from the small and large intestines, and the rectal vein from the rectum and anus.
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vena portae hepatis.Medical dictionary. 2011.