Cephalic Vein Exam
• The cephalic vein is in located the dorsal radial hand, wrist, and forearm.
• The cephalic vein collects returning blood from the dorsal and palmar venous networks.
• The cephalic vein is frequently accompanied by an accessory cephalic vein located in the dorsal midline of the forearm.
Diagrams & Photos
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Cephalic and basilic veins
Key Points
- The cephalic vein at the wrist is a superficial vein used for venipuncture and IV access, running along the radial side of the forearm.
- The cephalic vein is usually palpable and visible beneath the skin.
- In the distal forearm and wrist, the cephalic vein is in close proximity to the dorsal radial sensory nerve.
- In the wrist (section 10) the cephalic vein will be in the area of the anatomic snuff box.
- At the antecubital region the cephalic vein, median cubital vein, and the basilic vein often interconnect in an "M" pattern.
- The cephalic vein at the wrist and distal forearm can be surgically connected to the radial artery to make an A-V fistula for hemodialysis.