In human anatomy, the cephalic vein (also called the antecubital vein)
Anatomy
The cephalic vein is situated within the superficial
fascia along the anterolateral surface of the
biceps.
Origin
The cephalic vein forms at the roof of the anatomical snuffbox at the radial end of the dorsal venous network of hand.
Course and relations
From its origin, it ascends up the lateral aspect of the radius.
Near the shoulder, the cephalic vein passes between the deltoid muscle and pectoralis major (deltopectoral groove) through the clavipectoral triangle, where it empties into the axillary vein.
Anastomoses
It communicates with the
basilic vein via the median cubital vein at the
elbow.
Clinical significance
The cephalic vein is often visible through the
skin, and its location in the deltopectoral groove is fairly consistent, making this site a good candidate for venous access. Permanent pacemaker leads are often placed in the cephalic vein in the deltopectoral groove. The vein may be used for intravenous access, as large bore
cannula may be easily placed. However, the cannulation of a vein as close to the radial nerve as the cephalic vein can sometimes lead to nerve damage.
History
Ordinarily the term
cephalic refers to anatomy of the head, from the Greek term for head
kephale. When the Persian Muslim physician Ibn Sīnā's Canon was translated into
medieval Latin,
cephalic was mistakenly chosen to render the
Arabic term , meaning "outer". In other words, there was a mistranslation, where "cephalic" was incorrectly used to represent the term "al-kífal."
==Additional images==
(cephalic vein labeled at upper left)]]
See also
External links
