Superficial Lymphatics of the Arm, Posterior View

Description

Posterior to the humerus and forearm, a superficial lymphatic network courses within the subcutaneous tissue overlying the triceps brachii and the dorsal (extensor) compartment of the forearm. From the dorsum of the hand and posterior forearm, lymphatic capillaries coalesce into larger superficial collecting vessels that run proximally with the superficial veins, then sweep superiorly toward the lateral arm with the cephalic vein or medially with the basilic vein. Along the posterolateral arm the channels pass inferior to the deltoid, heading toward the infraclavicular region, while medial pathways converge toward the axilla. Surface anatomy matters here. The posterior view clarifies how cutaneous lymph from the dorsal forearm and hand reaches the axillary lymph nodes, a route that is tested when evaluating upper-limb lymphedema after breast cancer surgery or axillary node dissection and when tracing lymphangitis spreading proximally from a hand infection. Surgeons and proceduralists also care about these superficial collectors because they lie where posterior arm incisions, lacerations, and superficial venous cannulation can disrupt drainage and complicate wound healing. Use this plate in anatomy and clinical skills teaching to pair superficial lymphatic drainage with the palpable landmarks of the posterior shoulder and arm, including the acromion, scapular spine, and triceps contour. It also suits lymphatic mapping figures in surgical oncology texts, physiotherapy resources on post-mastectomy edema, and patient-education materials explaining why swelling can extend from the dorsum of the hand to the upper arm. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.