Variation in the Course and Termination of the Cephalic Vein in the Deltopectoral Triangle

Abstract

Summary The knowledge of cephalic vein variation would aid proper identification and prevent error in surgical emergencies. The path, distribution, and termination of the cephalic vein in relation to the deltopectoral triangle were studied in twenty formalin-embalmed cadavers. Results show the bilateral presentation of the cephalic vein in all the shoulders examined. Thirty-seven (37) cases presented with a superficial and lateral course of the cephalic vein in the deltopectoral groove, while the rest three cases presented a deep course. Of these 37 cases with the superficial course, two cases ascended anteriorly and above the clavicle and drained into the external jugular vein in the neck. Another case presented a cephalic vein that ascended anteriorly and then above the clavicle and drained into an unnamed vein in the neck. In one case, the cephalic vein ascended superficially in the deltopectoral groove and laterally in the deltopectoral triangle. In one bilateral pattern, the cephalic vein in the deltopectoral triangle drained into the axillary vein. In all the three cases where the cephalic vein ascended deep within the deltopectoral groove, they terminated deep in the deltopectoral triangle. In one of these, the cephalic vein received a tributary that originated from a venous network beneath the deltoid muscle and then drained into athe xillary vein, deep in the deltopectoral triangle. In the other two cases, the cephalic vein gave a tributary to the axillary vein and continued deep and medially in the deltopectoral triangle, passed below the clavicle and drained into the subclavian vein. The knowledge of these variations of the cephalic vein is essential to clinicians and surgeons for venous access during emergencies and surgery.