For an upper limb venogram, where is the contrast material injected?

For an upper limb venogram, the contrast material is injected into a superficial vein. This approach allows for optimal visualization of the venous structures in the arm during fluoroscopic imaging. Superficial veins, such as the cephalic or basilic veins, provide easy access and are generally well-defined, making it possible to clearly visualize the venous anatomy and any potential abnormalities, such as thrombosis or occlusion.

Injecting contrast into a superficial vein facilitates a rapid and effective filling of the venous system in the upper extremity, allowing for a detailed assessment. This procedure is crucial in evaluating conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other venous pathologies. Identifying contrast flow through the superficial and sometimes deep veins can help in making an accurate diagnosis.

In contrast, other options involve either veins not typically accessed for this procedure, such as the iliac and ventricular veins, or suggest methods that would not yield the necessary detail for an upper limb venogram. Additionally, while distended veins might suggest a pathway for injection, they are not the primary site for contrast administration in standard practice.