Long saphenous vein

Long Saphenous Vein

The Long Saphenous Vein and its tributaries.

The Long Saphenous Vein (also known as the Great Saphenous Vein) is the largest vein in the human body, running along the length of the lower limb. It is a superficial vein meaning it is close to the surface of the body.

Anatomy

The Long Saphenous Vein originates from where the dorsal vein of the big toe merges with the dorsal venous arch of the foot. From here, it runs up the medial side of the leg, passing over the medial malleolus and up the medial side of the thigh. It then passes through the saphenous opening in the fascia lata to drain into the femoral vein.

Clinical significance

Due to its size and superficial location, the Long Saphenous Vein is often used in coronary artery bypass surgery to replace blocked arteries. It is also the vein most commonly affected by varicose veins.

See also

• Short saphenous vein
• Saphenous nerve
• Femoral vein
• Varicose veins

External links

• AnatomyExpert