Axillary vein

Definition

The axillary vein is a large blood vessel located in the armpit (axilla) that carries deoxygenated blood from the upper limb back to the heart. It forms from the merging of the basilic and brachial veins and continues as the subclavian vein.

Related terms

Brachial Vein: A deep vein of the arm that contributes to forming the axillary vein by merging with the basilic vein.

Basilic Vein: A superficial vein located on the medial side of the arm that merges with the brachial veins to form part of the axillary vein.

Subclavian Vein: The continuation of the axillary vein past the outer border of the first rib, leading directly into the heart