Anatomical, radiological and histological investigation of the great and small saphenous veins.

Objective: To provide information on superficial veins of the lower limb such as anatomic variations, valve distribution, termination forms, and histological properties of vein walls.

Methods: Two hundred greater saphenous veins in 200 patients and 10 cadavers were investigated. Ultrasound examinations were performed in the Department of Radiology, Ataturk Hospital between December 2004 and October 2005.

Results: The lateral accessory branch of the great saphenous vein was found in 75 persons while in 48 persons no major branch was encountered. In addition, medial accessory branch of the great saphenous vein was observed in 17 (8.5%) on both sides. The popliteal type of termination was found in 211 cases. The small saphenous vein gave off perforating branches to the popliteal vein in 29 persons. The diameters of such veins were all measured on both sides of the cadavers and ultrasonographically on patients. Statistical analyses revealed no significant difference. One hundred and fifty-six valves were classified according to their position and type. The maximum number of valves was found in the first interval and the minimum number was in the second interval. The valves were mostly in Type III format.

Conclusion: Knowledge on the anatomic variations and characteristics of the valves of the superficial veins of the lower limbs can be helpful in clinical practice and surgical operations concerning the lower extremity.