ulnar vein

The ulnar vein is a deep vein of the forearm that accompanies the ulnar artery. It drains blood from the hand and the medial and posterior aspects of the forearm, and joins with the radial vein to form the brachial vein at the elbow.

The ulnar vein runs along the medial side of the forearm alongside the ulnar artery, deep to the flexor muscles. It travels from the hand and wrist region proximally to the elbow, where it joins the radial vein to form the brachial vein.

The ulnar vein drains deoxygenated blood from the hand and the medial and posterior regions of the forearm back toward the heart. It is part of the deep venous drainage system of the upper limb and contributes to venous return from the forearm.

The ulnar vein may be involved in conditions such as deep vein thrombosis of the upper extremity, which may be associated with compression syndromes or catheter-related causes. It may also be relevant in forearm trauma or venous access procedures. Medical evaluation is needed for specific concerns.

The ulnar vein is assessed primarily with Doppler ultrasound, which can evaluate venous patency and detect thrombosis. CT venography or MR venography may be used for more detailed assessment. It is identified during surgical procedures in the forearm.