Venous Drainage of the Upper Limb - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The venous system of the upper limb drains deoxygenated blood from the arm, forearm and hand. It can be subdivided into the superficial system and the deep system. In this article, we shall look at the anatomy of the upper limb veins – their anatomical course, structure, and their clinical relevance. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Superficial Veins The major superficial veins of the upper limb are the cephalic and basilic veins. They are located within the subcutaneous tissue of the upper limb. Basilic Vein The basilic vein originates from the dorsal venous network of the hand and ascends the medial aspect of the upper limb. At the border of the teres major, the vein moves deep into the arm. Here, it combines with the brachial veins from the deep venous system to form the axillary vein. Cephalic Vein The cephalic vein also arises from the dorsal venous network of the hand. It ascends the antero-lateral aspect of the upper limb, passing anteriorly at the elbow. At the shoulder, the cephalic vein travels between the deltoid and pectoralis major muscles (known as the deltopectoral groove), and enters the axilla region via the clavipectoral triangle. Within the axilla, the cephalic vein empties into axillary vein. The cephalic and basilic veins are connected at the elbow by the median cubital vein. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The superficial veins of the upper limb. Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Prosection of the upper limb, demonstrating the superficial venous system. Prosection of the upper limb, demonstrating the superficial venous system. You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Deep Veins The deep venous system of the upper limb is situated underneath the deep fascia. It is formed by paired veins, which accompany and lie either side of an artery. In the upper extremity, the deep veins share the name of the artery they accompany. The brachial veins are the largest in size, and are situated either side of the brachial artery. The pulsations of the brachial artery assist the venous return. Veins that are structured in this way are known as vena comitantes. Perforating veins run between the deep and superficial veins of the upper limb, connecting the two systems. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The major deep veins of the upper limb. Clinical Relevance Venepuncture Venepuncture is the practice of obtaining intravenous access. This is usually for the purpose of providing intravenous therapy (e.g. fluids, medications) or for obtaining a blood sample. The median cubital vein is a common site of venepuncture. It is a superficial vein that is located anteriorly to the cubital fossa region. It is thought to be fixed in place by perforating veins, which arise from the deep venous system and pierce the bicipital aponeurosis. Its ease of access, fixed position and superficial position make the median cubital vein a good site for venepuncture in many individuals. Do you think you’re ready? Take the quiz below Pro Feature - Quiz Venous Drainage of the Upper Limb Question 1 of 3 Submitting... Skip Next Rate question: You scored 0% Skipped: 0/3 1800 More Questions Available Upgrade to TeachMeAnatomy Pro Challenge yourself with over 1800 multiple-choice questions to reinforce learning Learn More Frequent questions What are the main veins involved in the venous drainage of the upper limb? The primary veins responsible for venous drainage in the upper limb are the cephalic and basilic veins, which are located in the subcutaneous tissue. These veins collect deoxygenated blood from the arm, forearm, and hand. How does the basilic vein contribute to venous drainage? The basilic vein begins at the dorsal venous network of the hand and ascends along the medial side of the upper limb. It eventually joins the brachial veins near the teres major to form the axillary vein. Where does the cephalic vein travel in the upper limb? The cephalic vein originates from the dorsal venous network of the hand and ascends the antero-lateral aspect of the upper limb. It passes at the elbow and enters the axilla via the deltopectoral groove, draining into the axillary vein. What is the significance of the median cubital vein in clinical practice? The median cubital vein is a commonly used site for venepuncture due to its superficial location and fixed position, making it easily accessible for intravenous access and blood sampling. How are the deep veins of the upper limb structured? The deep veins of the upper limb are paired veins that accompany arteries, sharing their names, such as the brachial veins alongside the brachial artery. These veins assist venous return through their proximity to arterial pulsations and are connected to superficial veins by perforating veins. Rate This Article