Dorsal venous network of hand

Anatomy of the dorsal venous network of the hand

The dorsal venous network of the hand is a prominent venous network located on the dorsum of the hand. It plays a crucial role in the venous drainage of the hand and is often used for intravenous access due to its superficial location and accessibility.

Anatomy

The dorsal venous network is formed by the convergence of the dorsal digital veins and the dorsal metacarpal veins. These veins collect blood from the fingers and the dorsal aspect of the hand.

Dorsal Digital Veins

The dorsal digital veins are small veins that drain the dorsal surfaces of the fingers. They run along the sides of the fingers and join to form the dorsal metacarpal veins.

Dorsal Metacarpal Veins

The dorsal metacarpal veins are formed by the union of the dorsal digital veins. These veins run between the metacarpal bones and eventually drain into the dorsal venous network.

Cephalic and Basilic Veins

The dorsal venous network drains into the cephalic vein and the basilic vein. The cephalic vein originates from the lateral aspect of the network, while the basilic vein originates from the medial aspect.

Clinical Significance

The dorsal venous network is often used for intravenous therapy and phlebotomy due to its superficial location and ease of access. It is also a site for the insertion of peripheral intravenous catheters.

Related Pages

• Cephalic vein
• Basilic vein
• Venous system
• Intravenous therapy

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