The ulnar veins are two major deep veins of the forearm that accompany the ulnar artery, and while they don't exist in the wrist, they begin close to it. They are continuations of the deep palmar venous arch located in the hand.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Deep Paired Veins: The ulnar veins are typically present as two veins running alongside each other. This arrangement is called venae comitantes.
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Location and Course: These veins originate from the deep palmar venous arch in the hand and travel upwards along the ulnar side (pinky side) of the forearm. They accompany the ulnar artery along its course.
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Relationship to the Wrist: The ulnar veins do not reside in the wrist itself. They originate in the hand near the wrist and then course up the forearm.
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Function: The ulnar veins drain blood from the hand and forearm, carrying it back towards the heart.
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Joining to Form Brachial Vein: As the ulnar veins ascend towards the elbow, they typically merge with the radial veins (another set of deep forearm veins) to form the brachial veins. The brachial veins then continue up the arm towards the axilla (armpit).
In summary, while the ulnar veins are not located in the wrist, they originate nearby as continuations of the deep palmar venous arch and ascend along the forearm alongside the ulnar artery. They are crucial for draining blood from the hand and forearm.
