Small Saphenous Vein

vena saphena parva

The small saphenous vein drains the lateral foot and posterior calf, joining the popliteal vein at the variable saphenopopliteal junction. Incompetence produces posterior calf varicosities. The sural nerve runs alongside the SSV for most of its calf course — SSV stripping without nerve identification produces sural nerve injury and lateral foot numbness.

Region: Lower Leg

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Lateral dorsal venous arch of the foot (lateral marginal vein)

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Preoperative Doppler mapping of the saphenopopliteal junction (SPJ) level is essential before SSV surgery — the SPJ varies from above the knee to well below the popliteal crease. Endovenous ablation of the SSV is performed under ultrasound guidance with the junction marked to avoid propagation into the popliteal vein. Thermal ablation at the junction requires leaving a 2 cm safety margin from the popliteal vein.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

SSV Incompetence

Posterior calf varicosities from saphenopopliteal junction reflux managed with endovenous ablation under ultrasound guidance with preoperative junction mapping.