Great Saphenous Vein

Great Saphenous Vein

The Great Saphenous Vein (pronunciation: /ˈsæfɪnəs/ vein) is the largest vein in the human body, extending from the foot to the groin. It is a Superficial vein that is responsible for draining blood from the leg and foot back to the heart.

Etymology

The term "saphenous" is derived from the Greek word "saphēnēs," meaning "manifest" or "obvious." This is likely due to the vein's visibility on the surface of the leg.

Anatomy

The Great Saphenous Vein originates from the dorsal vein of the big toe and runs up the medial side of the leg. It passes in front of the Ankle joint, runs up the medial side of the Calf, and continues up the medial side of the thigh. It then drains into the Femoral vein in the groin.

Related Terms

• Superficial vein
• Femoral vein
• Ankle joint
• Calf

See Also

• Lesser Saphenous Vein
• Venous system
• Circulatory system

References

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