Anatomy of the palm and back of the hand. On the palmar aspect the deep neurovascular structures are protected by a strong layer of dense connective tissue termed the palmar aponeurosis. On the back of the hand the cephalic vein is located near the thumb. The basilic vein is opposite. From Sobotta, J. (1906) Atlas der deskriptiven Anatomie des Menschen. Vol 3, Das Nerven- und Gefasssystem des Menschen. J. F. Lehmann, Munchen, Figs. 484, 485.