The inferior epigastric vein is formed by the venae comitantes of the inferior epigastric artery. It arises within the rectus sheath near the umbilicus in the upper aspect of the anterior abdominal wall. Here, the inferior epigastric vein forms several anastomoses with the superior epigastric vein.

It descends in a relatively straight course posterior to the rectus abdominis muscle, traveling within the rectus sheath. As the vein passes below the arcuate line, it exits the sheath and passes anterior to the transversalis fascia. It ends by draining into the external iliac vein (Read more!) approximately 0.5 inches (1.25 centimeters) above the inguinal ligament. Along its course, it receives the pubic vein.

Together with the inferior epigastric artery, this vein forms the lateral border of Hesselbach's triangle. Additionally, together with the inferior epigastric artery, the inferior epigastric vein creates a visible elevation on the parietal peritoneum, known as the lateral umbilical fold.

There can be some variations in the number and course of these veins. However, each side of the body usually has either one or two inferior epigastric veins accompanying the inferior epigastric artery.

Overall, the inferior epigastric vein drains the parietal peritoneum, muscle aponeuroses, muscles (including the rectus abdominis, transversus abdominis, and internal abdominal oblique), and the subcutaneous tissue and skin of the anterolateral abdominal wall.

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Inferior epigastric vein