Palmar venous arch

Palmar venous arch

The palmar venous arch is a network of veins located in the palm of the hand. It plays a crucial role in the venous drainage of the hand, collecting blood from the fingers and palm and directing it towards the forearm.

Anatomy

The palmar venous arch is typically divided into two parts:

• The superficial palmar venous arch
• The deep palmar venous arch

Superficial Palmar Venous Arch

The superficial palmar venous arch is located just beneath the skin and is formed by the union of the common palmar digital veins. It drains into the cephalic vein and the basilic vein.

Deep Palmar Venous Arch

The deep palmar venous arch lies deeper within the hand, accompanying the deep palmar arterial arch. It is formed by the union of the palmar metacarpal veins and drains into the radial vein and the ulnar vein.

Function

The primary function of the palmar venous arch is to facilitate the return of deoxygenated blood from the hand to the heart. It ensures efficient venous drainage, which is essential for maintaining proper circulation and preventing venous congestion in the hand.

Clinical Significance

The palmar venous arch can be involved in various medical conditions, such as venous thrombosis or varicose veins. Understanding its anatomy is important for surgical procedures involving the hand, such as vascular surgery or hand surgery.

Related Pages

• Cephalic vein
• Basilic vein
• Radial vein
• Ulnar vein
• Venous system
• Hand anatomy