The inferior vena cava (also known as IVC or the posterior vena cava) is a large vein that carries oxygen-depleted blood from the torso and lower body to the right side of the heart. From there ...

except for the pulmonary vein) Allows diffusion of gases and nutrients from blood into the body cells Wall Thick, muscular Thinner Very thin, one cell thick Lumen Small Large Very small ...

Understanding its basic anatomy is crucial ... may then back up into the veins, leading to symptoms like swelling in the legs ...