The Hepatic Portal System EXPLAINED!

The video explains the hepatic portal system, focusing on the hepatic portal vein, which connects two capillary systems. Nutrients absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract are transported to the liver via the hepatic portal vein for processing and detoxification before entering general circulation. The video also details the roles of the superior and inferior mesenteric veins, as well as the splenic vein, in this system.

What is the primary function of a portal vein?

• To connect two capillary systems

• To supply blood to the brain

• To transport oxygenated blood

• To drain blood into the heart

Which nutrients are absorbed in the jejunum of the small intestine?

• Proteins and fats

• Water and electrolytes

• Amino acids and simple sugars

• Vitamins and minerals

What is the role of the hepatic portal vein in nutrient processing?

• It stores nutrients for future use

• It converts nutrients into energy

• It transports nutrients directly to the heart

• It processes and detoxifies nutrients in the liver

Which vein is responsible for draining the contents of the small intestine?

• Hepatic vein

• Splenic vein

• Inferior mesenteric vein

• Superior mesenteric vein

What does the right gastroepiploic vein drain?

• The liver

• The inferior part of the stomach

• The spleen

• The pancreas

Which vein drains the descending colon?

• Inferior mesenteric vein

• Hepatic portal vein

• Splenic vein

• Superior mesenteric vein

What is the primary function of the spleen in the hepatic portal system?

• To absorb nutrients

• To store nutrients

• To produce red blood cells

• To degrade old blood cells and bacteria

Where does the inferior mesenteric vein drain before reaching the hepatic portal vein?

• Into the splenic vein

• Directly into the hepatic portal vein

• Into the inferior vena cava

• Into the superior mesenteric vein

What happens to nutrients after they are processed by the liver?

• They are stored in the liver

• They are excreted as waste

• They are converted into fat

• They enter the general circulation

Which of the following is not a function of the hepatic portal vein?

• Transporting oxygenated blood

• Detoxifying nutrients

• Connecting two capillary systems

• Processing toxins