THE CEPHALIC VEIN IN MICROSURGERY

A working knowledge of the venous anatomy is seldom emphasized but is an essential element in all microvascular procedures. The cephalic vei n has been chosen here to serve as a model, since it is an important s ource for both afferent and efferent flow for flap transfers as well a s in limb replantations. The better known, lower extremity superficial veins, especially as a source for long vein grafts, are not necessari ly the best option. The cephalic vein represents the most versatile of the large superficial veins of the upper extremity and has numerous r oles in microsurgery other than as a viable alternative for vein graft s. (C) 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.