Accessory and great saphenous veins as coronary artery bypass conduits.

Anatomic, histologic and ultrasound studies demonstrate two distinct types of longitudinal veins in the lower extremities. The great saphenous vein is deep to the saphenous fascia. Accessory saphenous veins are superficial to this layer, have thin walls with diminished muscle cells and elastic fibers.

Selection of saphenous vein conduit in varicose vein disease.

Background: Limbs with varicose veins are difficult to assess as a source of saphenous vein conduit. Anatomic, histologic, and ultrasound studies demonstrate two types of longitudinal veins in the lower extremities. The great saphenous vein is deep to the saphenous fascia.

Optimizing saphenous vein site selection using intraoperative venous duplex ultrasound scanning.

Background: Saphenous vein is the most common conduit utilized for coronary artery bypass. However, preoperative noninvasive venous studies to evaluate saphenous vein morphology are not commonly performed due to limited logistical support. A prospective, nonrandomized study was developed to assess the utility of intraoperative saphenous vein duplex ultrasound studies in optimizing saphenous vein site selection.