Basilic
Basilic (Basilic vein)
Basilic (pronounced: ba-SIL-ik) is a term used in anatomy to refer to the large vein located in the upper limb, specifically on the medial side of the arm. The term is derived from the Latin word 'basilicus', meaning 'royal', due to its large size and important function in the circulatory system.
Etymology
The term 'basilic' is derived from the Latin 'basilicus', which translates to 'royal'. This is likely due to the vein's large size and significant role in the body's circulatory system. The basilic vein is so named because it was considered the 'king' among veins in the traditional system of phlebotomy.
Anatomy
The basilic vein is a large, superficial vein of the upper limb. It originates from the dorsal venous network of the hand and travels up the medial side of the forearm and arm. It then pierces the deep fascia to join the brachial vein, forming the axillary vein. The basilic vein is often used for venipuncture (blood draw) and the insertion of peripheral venous catheters.
Related Terms
- Vein: A blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood towards the heart.
- Dorsal venous network: A complex network of small veins (venules) on the back of the hand and the dorsal surface of the foot.
- Brachial vein: A deep vein of the upper limb that helps drain blood from the radial and ulnar veins to the axillary vein.
- Axillary vein: A large blood vessel that conveys blood from the lateral aspect of the thorax, axilla (armpit) and upper limb toward the heart.
- Venipuncture: The process of obtaining intravenous access for the purpose of intravenous therapy or for blood sampling of venous blood.
- Peripheral venous catheter: A catheter (tube) that is inserted into a peripheral vein, for the administration of intravenous fluids and medication.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Basilic
- Wikipedia's article - Basilic
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