The study of vascular anatomy is essential for understanding circulation, organ perfusion, and relationships within neurovascular bundles. Given the complexity of the vascular system, using a consistent method to learn the features of each vessel is beneficial. In this article, a six-part framework for describing vessels will be outlined – type, site, size, course, origin/branches, and tributaries/union. This structure can be applied to any vessel and forms the basis for effective anatomical learning. Department of Anatomy, University of East Anglia A 6-part framework for learning the anatomy of blood vessels 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 Type The type identifies whether the vessel is an artery or a vein. For veins, it is also useful to specify whether the vessel is part of the superficial or deep venous system. Examples: The brachial artery is an artery of the upper limb. The cephalic vein is a superficial vein of the upper limb. The femoral vein is a deep vein of the lower limb. Site The site describes the anatomical region in which the vessel is located. This helps to relate the vessel to nearby structures. Examples: The brachial artery is a vessel of the medial arm. The external carotid artery is a vessel of the head and neck. The great saphenous vein is a vessel of the medial lower limb. Size The size describes the relative calibre of the vessel. This can help distinguish between major arteries or veins and their smaller branches. Examples: The popliteal artery is a large vessel. The genicular arteries are small vessels. The basilic vein is a large superficial vein. Course The course describes the path the vessel takes through the body, including its relation to key anatomical landmarks. Examples: The common carotid artery starts at the sternoclavicular joint, lies deep to sternocleidomastoid, and divides at the upper border of the thyroid cartilage. The great saphenous vein ascends anterior to the medial malleolus and travels along the medial aspect of the thigh. The brachial artery runs along the medial side of the humerus, deep to the biceps brachii. Origin/Branches In arteries, this describes where the vessel originates and any branches that arise from it. The pattern follows the direction of blood flow. Examples: The brachial artery arises as a continuation of the axillary artery. It gives off branches to the arm and terminates as the radial and ulnar arteries. The external carotid artery arises from the common carotid artery and gives off several branches to the face and neck. The popliteal artery is a continuation of the femoral artery and gives rise to the genicular arteries. Tributaries/Union In veins, this describes the tributaries that drain into the vessel and where the vessel ultimately drains. Examples: The cephalic vein arises from the dorsal venous arch, receives the median cubital vein, and drains into the axillary vein. The great saphenous vein receives tributaries from the superficial veins of the leg and drains into the femoral vein. The basilic vein receives tributaries from the medial forearm and joins the brachial veins to form the axillary vein. Print Article Rate This Article