Soleal Veins

venae soleae

The soleal veins are large, thin-walled venous channels (often called sinusoids) inside the soleus muscle. They hold a considerable volume of blood at rest and empty into the posterior tibial and fibular veins when soleus contracts. They are the main chambers of the calf muscle pump that pushes blood back up the leg.

Anatomical Data

Course & Branches

Origin	Intramuscular venous sinusoids of soleus
Course	Drain from within soleus forward and downward into the posterior tibial and fibular veins in the deep posterior compartment
Branches	Medial soleal veins (to the posterior tibial veins) Lateral soleal veins (to the fibular veins) Intramuscular sinusoids

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Because blood can pool and slow down in the soleal sinusoids when the calf muscles are inactive, they are one of the most common starting points of deep vein thrombosis. This is why prolonged bed rest, plaster casts and long flights increase thrombosis risk, and why calf exercises, early walking and intermittent pneumatic compression help prevent it. Isolated soleal vein thrombosis may spread into the tibial and popliteal veins.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Soleal Vein Thrombosis

Thrombosis starting in the soleal sinusoids causes calf pain and swelling and is frequently the first site of DVT after surgery or immobility. It is diagnosed with compression ultrasound.

Calf Muscle Pump Failure

Reduced ankle movement, obesity or muscle weakness lessen emptying of the soleal veins, raising venous pressure in the lower leg and contributing to swelling, skin changes and venous ulcers.

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