A morphometric study of arch of the great saphenous vein and its clinical significance

Abstract

Objective: Varicosities in the lower limbs are the most important afflictions of the venous system, as well as of the peripheral vascular disorders. They are always caused by a fault in the valves inside the veins at the point where the superficial veins communicate with the deep veins. If the valve leaks, the blood flows backwards and this increases the pressure in the superficial veins, which, as blood stagnates, becomes swollen and varicose. The treatment of these varicose veins is surgery, for which the surgeons should have a sound knowledge of the anatomy of the great saphenous vein (GSV). So, the aim of our study was to establish palpable anatomical markers for its exploration and surgical approach. Materials and Methods: In this study, 25 inguinofemoral regions of lower limbs were dissected. After exposing the arch of the GSV, we took the following measurements using a calliper - the distance separating the top of the arch of the GSV a) from the ventral-cranial iliac spine, b) from the pubic tubercle, and c) from the inguinal ligament. Statistical analysis of the measurements was done. Results: The mean distance of the arch of the GSV from the ventral cranial iliac spine, pubic tubercle, and the inguinal ligament was 9.46 cm, 4.66 cm, and 2.75 cm respectively. In addition, we found in one case a duplication of the GSV just above the knee. Conclusion: These measurements will help the surgeons in identifying the arch of the GSV before it opens into the anterior-internal surface of the femoral vein.

Keywords

• Arch of the great saphenous vein
• duplication
• inguinal ligament
• pubic tubercle
• ventral cranial iliac spine