Which vein accompanies the brachial artery?

The basilic vein is the correct answer because it runs alongside the brachial artery in the upper arm. The brachial artery is the main blood vessel supplying the arm and terminates as it branches into the radial and ulnar arteries at the elbow. The basilic vein, which is a superficial vein, typically runs in a parallel course with the brachial artery, making it a key drainage vessel for the upper limb. This relationship aids in understanding venous access for procedures like venipuncture and provides a basis for anatomical studies related to the vascular system of the arm.

In contrast, the cephalic vein runs along the lateral aspect of the arm and is not directly accompanied by the brachial artery. The radial vein is found deeper within the forearm, accompanying the radial artery rather than the brachial artery. The median vein is less common and can vary in its location and course; it does not consistently accompany the brachial artery. Understanding these anatomical associations is crucial for both clinical practice and the theoretical underpinnings of their relationships in the circulatory system.