Which veins are located between the anus and rectum?

• A. Portal venous plexus
• B. Internal pudendal veins
• C. External iliac veins
• D. Anorectal veins

Answer: (D)

The key idea is the venous network that sits in the wall at the junction of the anal canal and the rectum. The veins in this region are called anorectal veins, forming the anorectal venous plexus. They drain the mucosa and submucosa of the anal canal and proximal rectum, with blood typically flowing into the middle and inferior rectal veins (to the internal iliac system) while the superior rectal vein drains toward the portal system. This regional venous network is why the term anorectal veins is used for veins located between the anus and rectum. Other options refer to broader or different pathways (portals, perineal drainage, or external pathways) and do not describe the specific regional veins.