Question

what vein returns blood from the upper part of the body directly to the heart?
a inferior mesenteric vein
b hepatic portal vein
c superior vena cava
d inferior vena cava

Explanation:

• The inferior mesenteric vein drains blood from the large intestine and empties into the splenic vein, not directly to the heart.
• The hepatic portal vein carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver, not directly to the heart.
• The superior vena cava is a large vein that returns de - oxygenated blood from the upper body (head, neck, upper limbs, and thorax) directly to the right atrium of the heart.
• The inferior vena cava returns blood from the lower body to the heart.

Answer:

C. Superior vena cava