Short saphenous vein

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Short Saphenous Vein

The short saphenous vein and its tributaries.

The Short Saphenous Vein (SSV), also known as the Lesser Saphenous Vein, is a large vein in the leg that carries deoxygenated blood from the foot back to the heart. It is one of the two main superficial veins of the lower limb, the other being the Great Saphenous Vein.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The SSV originates from the lateral end of the dorsal venous arch, which is located on the top of the foot. It runs up the back of the leg, passing through the fascia of the calf muscles, and drains into the popliteal vein at the level of the popliteal fossa.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The SSV is often used for vein grafting in coronary artery bypass surgery. It is also a common site for the formation of varicose veins.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD