What are the deep veins?

The deep venous system in the human body primarily includes the femoral vein, great saphenous vein, and axillary vein. These veins are located within muscles and bones and play a crucial role in returning blood to the heart.

1. Femoral Vein

      Located on the posterior aspect of the thigh, distal to the inguinal ligament. The deep femoral vein lies proximal to the entry point and is formed by perforating veins from surrounding muscles. It constitutes an important part of the common femoral vein.

2. Great Saphenous Vein

      Situated within the subcutaneous tissue of the lower limb, it connects anteriorly to the femoral vein approximately 3 cm below and lateral to the pubic tubercle. Along its course, this vein receives numerous tributaries and forms several anastomoses with the deep veins of the leg and thigh. Typically, the great saphenous vein receives the external pudendal vein, circumflex iliac vein, superficial epigastric vein, and accessory saphenous vein at its proximal end before draining into the femoral vein.

3. Axillary Vein

      The axillary vein is a large vessel responsible for transporting blood from the upper limb, axilla, and lateral chest wall to the heart. It is formed by the union of the brachial and basilic veins. It begins at the lower border of the teres major muscle and extends to the first rib. It lies anterior and medial to the axillary artery.

In addition, the human deep venous system includes other venous structures such as the subclavian vein.