Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The radial vein is a major vein in the forearm that returns deoxygenated blood from the lateral aspect of the hand and forearm to the heart. It runs parallel to the radius bone, eventually joining with the ulnar vein to form the brachial vein.
Related terms
Ulnar Vein: A major vein in the forearm that drains deoxygenated blood from the medial aspect of the hand and forearm, eventually merging with the radial vein.
Brachial Vein: A large vein located in the upper arm that is formed by the union of the radial and ulnar veins, continuing blood's return journey towards the heart.
Deoxygenated Blood: Blood that has delivered its oxygen supply to tissues and organs and now carries carbon dioxide and other waste products back to the heart for purification