What is batson plexus?

Batson plexus is a network of veins that run alongside the vertebral column in the abdominal and thoracic cavities. It is also called vertebral venous plexus or Batson's venous plexus. These veins drain blood from the pelvic organs, lower limbs, and abdominal wall and connect to the spinal cord veins that drain the central nervous system. They also interconnect with the veins of the chest, head, and neck.

The Batson plexus is significant because it provides a potential pathway for cancer cells from the pelvic organs and lower limbs to spread to other parts of the body, including the spine, lung, and brain. This is due to the lack of valves in these veins that normally prevent backflow of blood and stop metastasizing tumor cells.

In addition, the Batson plexus plays a role in the regulation of intraspinal pressure, spinal cord blood flow, and cerebrospinal fluid exchange. The veins of the Batson plexus can dilate or constrict to compensate for changes in intrathoracic and intra-abdominal pressure, which helps maintain proper blood flow to the spinal cord.