The dorsal venous arch receives the four dorsal metatarsal veins and drains medially into the great saphenous vein and laterally into the small saphenous vein. It is the primary superficial venous drainage of the dorsal foot and a common site for peripheral intravenous access.
| Origin | Dorsal metatarsal veins from the toes |
|---|---|
| Course | Lies across the proximal dorsal metatarsal region, continuing medially as the medial marginal vein (great saphenous vein) and laterally as the lateral marginal vein (small saphenous vein) |
| Branches |
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The dorsal venous arch is the most accessible site for IV cannulation in infants and in patients with collapsed peripheral veins. Thrombophlebitis of the arch presents as a tender, indurated cord on the dorsum of the foot. Varicosities of the arch are associated with great saphenous reflux and treated by addressing the saphenous incompetence.
Superficial vein thrombosis of the dorsal venous arch presenting as a painful, tender cord on the dorsum of the foot, treated with NSAIDs and compression.
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