| Median cubital vein | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Details | |
| Source | Cephalic vein |
| Drains to | Basilic vein |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | v. mediana cubiti, v. intermedia cubiti |
| TA98 | A12.3.08.019 |
| TA2 | 4980 |
| FMA | 22963 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
In human anatomy, the median cubital vein (or median basilic vein) is a superficial vein of the arm on the anterior aspect of the elbow. It classically connects the cephalic vein and the basilic vein. It is typically the most prominent superficial vein in the human body, and is visible when all other veins are hidden by fat or collapsed during a shock.
It is routinely used for venipuncture (taking blood) and as a site for an intravenous cannula. This is due to its particularly wide lumen, and its tendency to remain stationary upon needle insertion.