The chain of lymph nodes associated with the inferior vena cava; it is divided into three groups: nodi lymphatici cavales laterales on the right of the inferior vena cava; nodi lymphatici precavales, in front of the inferior vena cava; nodi lymphatici postcavales, under nodus lymphaticus, behind the inferior vena cava.

The inferior vena cava are the large venous trunk which receives blood from the lower extremities and from the pelvic and abdominal organs. It travels through the abdomen (from the lower extremities) and returns blood to the right atrium, a thin-walled chamber of the heart which pumps blood into the right ventricle, of the heart.