What is a cephalic vein?
The cephalic vein, along with the basilic vein, is one of the primary superficial veins that drain the upper limb 1. It courses through both the forearm and arm and terminates by draining into the axillary vein.
What is the function of the cephalic vein?
The cephalic vein drains the radial part of the hand, forearm and arm and communicates along its course with the basilic vein, which drains the ulnar part. The cephalic vein empties directly into the axillary vein.
Is cephalic a vein or artery?
Anatomical terminology In human anatomy, the cephalic vein is a superficial vein in the arm. It communicates with the basilic vein via the median cubital vein at the elbow and is located in the superficial fascia along the anterolateral surface of the biceps.
What does the cephalic vein connected to?
Course to the elbow: After crossing into the forearm, the cephalic vein runs through the superficial fascia (the surface tissue) of the inner arm. On its way, it emits the median cubital vein, which connects to the basilic vein. It then crosses the crease of the elbow joint.
Is the cephalic vein a deep vein?
The deep veins of the upper extremity include the paired ulnar, radial, and interosseous veins in the forearm; paired brachial veins of the upper arm; and axillary vein. The basilic and cephalic veins, which are superficial veins, contribute to the axillary vein, though many anatomic variations occur.
Is the cephalic vein good for drawing blood?
Located on the lateral portion of the arm, the cephalic vein is the second most common draw site choice. The cephalic vein is a safe alternative to the median antecubital vein when necessary.
What happens if the cephalic vein is cut?
A powerful cut to the outer side of the Pectoral muscle can potentially sever the cephalic vein, which will bleed profusely. A powerful cut across the front of the Deltoid muscle may sever the cephalic vein. A slashing cut across the biceps can disable any motion of the arm and can cause rapid blood loss.
Is cephalic vein superficial or deep vein?
The basilic and cephalic veins, which are superficial veins, contribute to the axillary vein, though many anatomic variations occur.
What is cephalic anatomy?
Cephalic: Relating to the head or the head end of the body. Situated on, in, or near the head. Cephalic is synonymous with cranial, relating to the cranium or head.
Which vein is used for phlebotomy?
Major arm veins used for phlebotomy. The median cubital vein is the larger and more stable vein and is preferred for venipuncture. The cephalic and basilic veins have a greater tendency to roll and veinpuncture may be more painful from these sites.
What is the anatomy of the cephalic vein?
Anatomy. The cephalic vein is a superficial vein of the hand, forearm and arm. Between the superficial and deep networks of veins, are valves that reduce the likelihood of backflow from the deep venous system.
Can a pacemaker be placed in the cephalic vein?
However the cephalic vein has presented an alternative where venous access is faster, easier and does not risk the complications of central venous access, i.e. pneumothorax. Other purposes of a cephalic vein cutdown include the percutaneous placement of pacemaker leads into the heart, and the placement of a long-term venous catheter.
Where does the cephalic venipuncture collect blood?
Cephalic Venipuncture To collect blood from the cephalic vein, which is located on the cranial aspect of the foreleg, the animal is restrained in sternal recumbency or in a standing position. Small dogs may be picked up and held in a standing position. Small dogs may be picked up and held in the restrainer’s arms with a foreleg extended.
Which is the best vein for canine venipuncture?
The most frequently used sites for canine blood collection are the cephalic, jugular, and lateral saphenous veins. The cephalic, jugular, femoral, and medial saphenous veins are used for feline venipunctures. To collect blood from a peripheral vein, introduce the needle into the occluded vessel as far distally as possible.