Variations of superficial veins in the cubital fossa - A cadaveric study in a Sri Lankan population

Introduction: The cubital fossa is an important site for various clinical procedures. Anatomical variations in the arrangement of cephalic, basilic and median cubital veins can influence these procedures. Classical patterns in literature are M-type, Y-type, N-type and W-type, while Charles' 1932 classification gives a more detailed picture. Understanding venous variations is vital to improve procedures and reduce complications. 
Objectives: To describe morphological patterns of superficial cubital veins using preserved cadavers in a Sri Lankan population.
Methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya. Both upper limbs of sixteen formalin-preserved cadavers used for undergraduate medical teaching were finely dissected. The patterns of cubital veins were observed, documented, and classified.
Results: The sample consisted of 16 adult cadavers with an equal male-to-female ratio. Two right upper limbs were excluded due to destruction of veins, leaving a final sample size of 30 (14 right, 16 left). Type 1 was the most common cubital vein morphology (33.3%), followed by Type 3 (30%). Females exhibited a higher frequency of Type 1 (35.7%), while males showed a greater occurrence of Type 3 (43.8%). There was no statistically significant association between vein morphology and sex (p=0.389) or laterality (p=1.000).
Conclusion: Type 1 was the most common venous pattern, followed by Type 3, with minimal variation by sex or limb laterality. Knowledge of the superficial veins of the cubital fossa is clinically important. Larger standardized studies are needed for clearer insights.