Saphenous opening

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Saphenous hiatus)

Saphenous opening (also known as the fossa ovalis) is an anatomical feature in the human body, specifically located in the upper part of the medial aspect of the thigh. It is an oval-shaped aperture in the fascia lata, the deep fascia of the thigh. The saphenous opening is the point of entry for the great saphenous vein into the deep venous system.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "saphenous" is derived from the Greek word "saphēnēs," meaning "clearly visible," a reference to the prominent visibility of the great saphenous vein. The term "fossa ovalis" is Latin for "oval ditch," describing the shape of the opening.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The saphenous opening is approximately 3.75 cm in length and is located 3-4 cm below the inguinal ligament. It is covered by a thin, cribriform fascia, which is perforated by numerous small vessels and lymphatics. The great saphenous vein, after passing through this opening, drains into the femoral vein.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

The saphenous opening is of clinical importance in surgery and medicine. It is the site of incision for the surgical procedure known as saphenous vein stripping, which is performed to treat varicose veins. It is also the site of potential hernias, known as femoral hernias.

Related terms[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Saphenous opening Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD