Saphenous Vein

vena saphena magna

The great saphenous vein is the longest vein in the body and the most commonly used conduit for coronary artery bypass grafting and peripheral arterial bypass procedures. Its subcutaneous course along the medial limb makes it palpable when dilated in varicose vein disease. The saphenofemoral junction where it joins the common femoral vein is the primary reflux point in great saphenous varicose veins and the target of endothermal ablation and ligation procedures.

Region: Lower Leg

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Dorsal foot venous arch, medial side

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Varicose veins from saphenofemoral junction reflux affect approximately 30 percent of the adult population, producing aching, swelling, and skin changes in advanced disease. Endothermal ablation (laser or radiofrequency) of the great saphenous vein produces equivalent outcomes to surgical stripping with lower complications and faster recovery. The saphenous nerve accompanies the vein in the distal third of the thigh and medial leg — injury during stripping or harvesting produces medial calf numbness.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Saphenous Varicose Veins

Great saphenous reflux producing incompetent varicose veins managed with compression stockings, foam sclerotherapy, and endothermal saphenous ablation for symptomatic or complicated disease.