Variants of the cephalic arch: report of 2 cases

The cephalic arch is a unique anatomic structure. Multiple variants of its usual morphology and termination have been described in the literature. We present 2 cadaveric cases of variants of the cephalic arch; firstly, a morphologic variant, where the cephalic arch divided in two and joined the axillary vein, and secondly, a cephalic arch that drained directly into the external jugular vein. The variants of the cephalic arch are associated with arterio-venous fistulas malfunction, thus the proper anatomic knowledge is essential for both diagnosis and treatment of this condition.