In human anatomy, the inferior mesenteric vein (IMV) is a blood vessel that drains blood from the large intestine.

The inferior mesenteric vein merges with the splenic vein, posterior to the middle of the body of the pancreas.

[1] Tributaries of the inferior mesenteric vein drain the large intestine, sigmoid colon and rectum.

The inferior mesenteric vein may be damaged during surgery on the body and tail of the pancreas.

[2] If a serious laceration occurs, the inferior mesenteric vein may be ligated, as other veins can drain the large intestine.