Median cubital vein
Median Cubital Vein
The Median Cubital Vein (pronunciation: ME-dee-an kyu-BI-tal vayn) is a superficial vein of the upper limb. It is one of the most common sites for venipuncture and is also often used for intravenous therapy.
Etymology
The term "Median" is derived from the Latin "medius" meaning "middle", while "Cubital" comes from the Latin "cubitus" which means "elbow". The term "Vein" is derived from the Latin "vena", which means "blood vessel".
Anatomy
The Median Cubital Vein is located in the antecubital fossa, the triangular area on the anterior view of the elbow. It connects the basilic vein and the cephalic vein. The vein is often visible through the skin, making it an accessible site for venipuncture.
Clinical Significance
Due to its superficial location and size, the Median Cubital Vein is often used for venipuncture (blood sampling) and intravenous therapy. However, care must be taken to avoid nerve damage, as the median nerve and brachial artery are located deep to this vein.
Related Terms
- Antecubital Fossa: The triangular area on the anterior view of the elbow.
- Basilic Vein: A large superficial vein of the upper limb that helps drain parts of the forearm and hand.
- Cephalic Vein: A superficial vein of the upper limb and it's located on the radial side of the forearm.
- Venipuncture: The process of obtaining intravenous access for the purpose of intravenous therapy or for blood sampling.
- Median Nerve: One of the main nerves of the upper limb, running down the center of the arm and forearm.
- Brachial Artery: The major blood vessel of the upper arm.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Median cubital vein
- Wikipedia's article - Median cubital vein
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