Small saphenous vein
Small Saphenous Vein
The Small Saphenous Vein (pronunciation: /smɔːl səˈfiːnəs veɪn/), also known as the Lesser Saphenous Vein, is a large vein in the human body that carries deoxygenated blood from the foot back towards the heart.
Etymology
The term "saphenous" is derived from the Greek word "saphēnēs", meaning "clearly visible", due to the vein's noticeable presence beneath the skin. The prefix "small" is used to differentiate it from the larger Great Saphenous Vein.
Anatomy
The Small Saphenous Vein begins at 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 calf muscle and into the popliteal vein behind the knee.
Function
The primary function of the Small Saphenous Vein is to transport deoxygenated blood from the surface of the foot and lower leg back to the heart. It works in conjunction with the circulatory system to maintain blood flow throughout the body.
Related Terms
- Great Saphenous Vein: The larger counterpart to the Small Saphenous Vein, running along the inside of the leg.
- Vein: A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart.
- Circulatory System: The system in the body responsible for the transport of blood and lymph.
- Popliteal Vein: The vein located behind the knee, into which the Small Saphenous Vein drains.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Small saphenous vein
- Wikipedia's article - Small saphenous vein
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