Venous arch

Venous Arch

The venous arch is a part of the human circulatory system that plays a crucial role in the transportation of deoxygenated blood from the body back to the heart. It is a component of the vein system, which is the network of blood vessels that carry blood towards the heart.

Anatomy

The venous arch is typically located in the hand and foot, where it forms a bridge between the dorsal venous network and the superficial veins. It is a superficial vein, meaning it is close to the surface of the body. The venous arch in the hand is known as the dorsal venous arch, while the one in the foot is known as the dorsal venous arch of the foot.

Function

The primary function of the venous arch is to collect deoxygenated blood from the capillaries and transport it back to the heart. This is a crucial part of the circulatory process, as it ensures that the body's tissues are constantly supplied with fresh, oxygenated blood.

Clinical Significance

The venous arch is often used as a site for venipuncture, a procedure in which a needle is inserted into a vein to draw blood or administer medication. It is also a common site for the insertion of intravenous (IV) lines in medical procedures.

See Also

• Vein
• Human circulatory system
• Venipuncture
• Intravenous therapy