Median cubital vein

Anatomy and course

The median cubital vein typically arises as a collateral branch from the cephalic vein which runs on the anterolateral aspect of the upper limb. It courses superomedially across the roof of the cubital fossa, within the subcutaneous tissue and empties into the basilic vein on the anteromedial side of the upper limb. The median cubital vein passes anterior to the bicipital aponeurosis, below which lie the brachial artery and median nerve. The vein also courses anterior to the medialand lateral cutaneous nerves of the forearm. Although there is a considerable amount of variation, the median cubital vein often receives the median antebrachial vein as its major tributary.

Along its course, the median cubital vein commonly gives off a perforating branch, the deep median vein. This vein penetrates the fascial roof of the cubital fossa to anastomose with a brachial vein, forming a connection between the superficial and deep venous systems of the upper limb. Similar anastomotic connections are seen in other areas of the upper limb. The median cubital vein is a common site for venipuncture due to its prominence and relative ease of accessibility.

Test your knowledge on the main veins of the upper limb in this quiz.

To learn more about the veins of the upper limb, explore our articles, quizzes, video tutorials and labelled diagrams.