Abstract
Introduction: Variations in superficial veins of the lower limb are not uncommon. This report discusses a case of anomalous termination of a small saphenous vein associated with its abnormal course in the thigh. Case report: During a routine dissection of a cadaver, an abnormal small (short) saphenous vein was observed in the right lower limb of a 60-year-old male cadaver. The origin of the small saphenous vein and its course in the leg was normal. However, instead of draining into the popliteal vein, it continued onto the medial side of the thigh in the superficial fascia posterior to the great saphenous vein and finally it joined the great saphenous vein about a centimetre proximal to the saphenous opening. About 2 inches below its termination, this short saphenous vein was joined by a communicating vein which was connecting it with the great saphenous vein. Conclusion: Prior knowledge of such a variant pattern of superficial veins of the lower limb is useful for clinicians during coronary bypass procedures, as these vessels are commonly used in such surgeries.
Highlights
IntroductionThe long (great) saphenous vein, being the longest vein in the body, begins as a continuation of the medial marginal vein of the foot and ends in the femoral vein distal to the inguinal ligament
Variations in superficial veins of the lower limb are not uncommon
Instead of draining into the popliteal vein in the popliteal fossa, it continued onto the medial side of the thigh in the superficial fascia posterior to the great saphenous vein and it joined the great saphenous vein about a centimetre proximal to the saphenous opening
Summary
The long (great) saphenous vein, being the longest vein in the body, begins as a continuation of the medial marginal vein of the foot and ends in the femoral vein distal to the inguinal ligament. It ascends in front of the medial malleolus followed by passing obliquely across the medial surface of the tibia. The short (small) saphenous vein begins as a continuation of the lateral marginal vein posterior to the lateral malleolus. Anomalous termination of a small (short) saphenous vein associated with its abnormal course in the thigh: a case report.
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