The surgical anatomy of the small saphenous vein and adjacent nerves in relation to endovenous thermal ablation.

Background: Thermal damage to peripheral nerves is a known complication of endovenous thermal ablation (EVA) of the small saphenous vein (SSV). Therefore, the main objective of this anatomic study was to define a safe zone in the lower leg where EVA of the SSV can be performed safely.

Methods: The anatomy of the SSV and adjacent nerves was studied in 20 embalmed human specimens.