The dorsal venous network of the wrist is a plexiform venous network on the dorsal wrist, receiving the dorsal metacarpal veins distally and draining into the cephalic vein radially and the basilic vein ulnarly. It is the anatomical origin of the major forearm superficial veins.
The dorsal wrist venous network is commonly used for intravenous access in patients with poor antecubital veins. It is the site where PICC lines are advanced from the dorsal hand into the cephalic vein tributary for upper arm PICC placement. Dorsal wrist haematoma from venipuncture involves this network and may cause extensor tendon adhesion from fibrosis.
Extravasation into the dorsal wrist venous network from failed cannulation producing dorsal wrist swelling that may compress extensor tendons, managed by elevation and compression.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
