Topographical variations of cubital fossa venous chiasma among voluntary blood donors: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The superficial veins in the cubital fossa show variations across different populations. The cubital fossa is a common site for venous access in diagnostic, surgical, and therapeutic procedures. Lack of knowledge and difficulty in observing and assessing these patterns of superficial venous chiasma in the cubital fossa pose a challenge to health professionals performing venipuncture. The current study aimed to analyse the different patterns of superficial veins in the cubital fossa, which is paramount for phlebotomists in diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 108 blood donors aged between 19 and 50 in a voluntary blood donation camp. A sphygmomanometer cuff was applied above the elbow crease for one to three minutes to visualise the veins. The patterns of veins were then observed and analysed, and photographs were taken for further detailed study.

Results: Four types of venous patterns were identified. Patterns were divided into four categories: N type (56.4%), M type (27.8%), Arch type (12.9%), and O type (2.8%).

Conclusion: The most common pattern observed in our study was N-type (56.4%). This study contributes to the understanding of venous anatomy and has practical applications in health care practice and medical education, making it a valuable learning resource in anatomy.