The basilic vein. The superficial vein that arises from the side opposite the thumb of the dorsal venous network of the hand, passes up the forearm, and joins with the brachial veins to form the axillary vein. The basilic vein is one of the veins that can be used for the insertion of a long catheter with a central tip position in the vena cava for the administration of intravenous nutrition.