Cephalic vein

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Description:

The cephalic vein originates over the anatomical snuffbox as it receives tributaries from the dorsal venous plexus of the hand. It is evident over the distal lateral aspect of the radius as it courses up the antebrachium. It courses up the anterolateral aspect of the antebrachium, crosses the front of the elbow region and ascends in the subcutaneous layer superficial to the biceps brachii. It enters the deltopectoral groove where it passes deep to join the proximal part of the axillary vein. This large superficial vein returns blood from the integument of the upper limb.