Palmar venous arches

The network of veins that drains blood from the palm of the hand.

Palmar venous arches consist of two main systems, the superficial and deep palmar arches, which are formed by anastomoses of the digital veins. These arches play a crucial role in returning deoxygenated blood from the fingers and palm back to the heart. Located in the palm, they receive blood from smaller digital veins and merge to form larger veins that connect to the forearm's venous system.

Terminologia Anatomica

arcus-venosi-palmarii

System

Circulatory system

Function

The primary function of the palmar venous arches is to facilitate the return of deoxygenated blood from the palm and fingers to the heart. They work as a conduit for blood by collecting it from the numerous veins that run alongside the fingers and palm. This system is particularly efficient due to the cooperative action of surrounding muscles, which help propel blood through the veins as they contract and relax during movements of the hand. Moreover, these arches assist in maintaining venous pressure, ensuring that blood flows back to the heart effectively. They also play a role in thermoregulation, helping to regulate blood flow as needed based on the temperature and activity level of the hand.

Location

The palmar venous arches are located within the palm of the hand. The superficial palmar venous arch resides just beneath the skin in the subcutaneous tissue, whereas the deep palmar venous arch is found deeper, lying close to the bones and muscles of the palm. The branches of the palmar venous arches extend into the fingers, where they connect to the digital veins. This network is carefully arranged to ensure efficient drainage of blood from the extensive vascular supply of the hand.

Did You Know?

The blood in the palmar venous arches often has a darker hue than arterial blood due to the lower oxygen content.
The palmar venous arches can vary in anatomy from person to person, influencing surgical approaches during procedures involving the hand.
These venous structures are crucial for preventing blood pooling in the hands, especially during activities that require gripping or fine motor manipulation.