The correct spelling of the term "vena basilica" is key in medical terminology. The word refers to the superficial vein that runs along the medial side of the upper arm. It is pronounced /vini bəˈsɪlɪkə/ in the IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is stressed, followed by 'ni' as in 'win'. The 'a' in 'ba-si-li-ca' is pronounced as 'uh'. The phonetic transcription helps with pronunciation of the medical term and is important for clear communication in the healthcare field.
The term "vena basilica" is a Latin expression that is widely used in anatomy and medical disciplines. It refers to a specific vein in the human body, known as the "basilic vein." The basilic vein is a large superficial vein located on the inner side or medial aspect of the upper limb.
The vena basilica is one of the major veins of the arm, stretching from the dorsal venous network on the back of the hand or forearm to the region of the axilla (armpit). It runs alongside the brachial artery, which is essential for the blood supply to the arm. The vena basilica is responsible for draining deoxygenated blood from the hand, forearm muscles, and superficial veins of the upper limb.
The name "basilic vein" is derived from the Latin term "basilicus," meaning royal or regal, as in basilica. This term is attributed to the vein's larger size compared to some other veins in the arm. The vena basilica is commonly used as a site for venipuncture or drawing blood, as it is relatively easy to locate and access. It is also employed for various medical procedures, including intravenous catheter insertion and for conducting dialysis in patients with renal disorders.
Overall, the vena basilica plays a crucial role in the circulation of blood in the human upper limb, serving as one of the main drainage pathways for deoxygenated blood from the arm.
Basilic vein, arises at the upper part of the bend of the elbow by the union of the median basilic and the posterior ulnar veins, or arises from the dorsal plexus of the hand following the course usually described as taken by one of the ulnar veins; it joins the brachial veins to form the axillary.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "vena basilica" has Latin origins. "Vena" translates to "vein" in English, while "basilica" refers to a large public building or hall. In ancient Rome, basilicas were used for various purposes, such as courts, markets, and meeting places. The name "vena basilica" or "basilic vein" was given to a prominent vein in the arm because of its location near the basilicas, resembling the central and prominent nature of these buildings in Roman society.