The cephalic vein in microsurgery.

A working knowledge of the venous anatomy is seldom emphasized but is an essential element in all microvascular procedures. The cephalic vein has been chosen here to serve as a model, since it is an important source for both afferent and efferent flow for flap transfers as well as in limb replantations. The better known, lower extremity superficial veins, especially as a source for long vein grafts, are not necessarily the best option. The cephalic vein represents the most versatile of the large superficial veins of the upper extremity and has numerous roles in microsurgery other than as a viable alternative for vein grafts.