Cephalic vein

Cephalic vein

Anatomy

Course
Originates from the left side of the dorsal venous network found on the dorsum of the hand on the metacarpal bones. It travels superficially on the lateral aspect of the arm and forearm until it passes between the deltoid and pectoralis major muscle where it promptly empties into the axillary vein.

Drain

Drains a portion of the hand and adjacent superficial muscles of the arm.

Clinical

Popular site for the insertion of a short term use cannula.

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