VENA CEPHALICA Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Vena Cephalica" refers to a major superficial vein that runs along the upper limb in the human body. It is one of the most prominent veins found in the arm, originating from the dorsal venous network of the hand. The vena cephalica ascends in a diagonal course along the lateral aspect of the upper limb, passing over the deltoid muscle and the pectoralis major muscle.
The vena cephalica can usually be easily identified and is commonly used for various medical procedures and interventions. Its visibility and accessibility make it a preferred choice for venipuncture, which involves drawing blood or administering fluids and medications into the vein. It can also serve as a conduit for blood sampling, intravenous therapy, or even for creating an arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis.
The vena cephalica is responsible for draining blood from the upper extremities, particularly from the lateral aspect of the arm. It is an important component of the venous system of the upper limb, which works in conjunction with the deep veins to efficiently return deoxygenated blood to the heart. Along its course, the vena cephalica receives numerous tributaries from smaller veins, ensuring proper venous drainage from the arm.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the vena cephalica is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it plays a significant role in various clinical procedures and can aid in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions.
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Arises at the point of union of one of the radial veins and the median cephalic, or arises from the dorsal plexus of the hand follwing the course usually described as that of the radial veins; it empties into the upper part of the axillary vein.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VENA CEPHALICA
- cena cephalica
- bena cephalica
- gena cephalica
- fena cephalica
- vwna cephalica
- vsna cephalica
- vdna cephalica
- vrna cephalica
- v4na cephalica
- v3na cephalica
- veba cephalica
- vema cephalica
- veja cephalica
- veha cephalica
- venz cephalica
- vens cephalica
- venw cephalica
- venq cephalica
- vena xephalica
Etymology of VENA CEPHALICA
The word "Vena Cephalica" has its etymology rooted in Latin.
The term "vena" translates to "vein" in English, while "cephalica" translates to "of the head". So, when combined, "Vena Cephalica" roughly translates to "vein of the head".
The name is derived from the fact that the Vena Cephalica is one of the major superficial veins in the arm, which courses along the lateral aspect of the upper limb, originating from the dorsal venous network of the hand and traveling up towards the shoulder region. Despite its name suggesting a connection to the head, the vein primarily runs on the outer surface of the upper limb, hence the term "cephalica" is somewhat misleading.
Similar spelling word for VENA CEPHALICA
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