Median cubital vein
Vena mediana cubiti
Also known as: antecubital vein
The median cubital vein is a superficial vein in front of the elbow that links the cephalic vein to the basilic vein. It is the usual site for venepuncture.
Overview
The median cubital vein usually leaves the cephalic vein a little below the elbow and runs obliquely upward and inward across the cubital fossa to join the basilic vein. It often receives the median antebrachial vein from the front of the forearm. In some people the pattern is M-shaped instead, with separate median cephalic and median basilic veins.
The vein lies on the bicipital aponeurosis, which separates it from the brachial artery and median nerve underneath. This makes it a relatively safe and reliable site for taking blood.
Function
- Links the superficial veins of the lateral and medial forearm.
Clinical significance
Venepuncture
The median cubital vein is large, close to the surface and held in place, so it is the vein of choice for blood sampling. If the needle goes too deep or too far medially, it can enter the brachial artery or injure the median nerve.
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Cardiovascular System sources. For education only; not medical advice.