
vena cava
The venae cavae are two large veins in the body that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart from different parts of the body. The superior vena cava collects blood from the upper body, including the head, arms, and chest. The inferior vena cava gathers blood from the lower body, including the legs, abdomen, and pelvis. Both empty into the right atrium of the heart, enabling it to pump the blood to the lungs for oxygen. They are essential components of the circulatory system, maintaining efficient blood flow and helping deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues.