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The bilateral persistent sciatic vein: a rare and clinically meaningful lower limb variant.
Maria Piagkou1, George Triantafyllou2, Ioannis Antonopoulos2
1Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece. mapian@med.uoa.gr.
Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy : SRA
|December 13, 2024
Summary
This study details a rare, symmetrical bilateral persistent sciatic vein (PSV) variant found in a cadaver. This anatomical variation highlights the importance of recognizing unusual venous drainage in the lower limb.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Vascular Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- The lower limb venous system is clinically significant, particularly concerning deep vein thrombosis.
- Anatomical variations in venous drainage can have important clinical implications.
Observation:
- A rare, symmetrical bilateral persistent sciatic vein (PSV) variant was identified during a cadaver dissection.
- The PSV originated from the popliteal vein, coursed through the abductor magnus muscle, and drained into the common femoral vein.
- The typical popliteal vein was hypoplastic, with the PSV serving as the primary drainage vessel.
Findings:
- The persistent sciatic vein (PSV) represented the lower limb's primitive axial vein, acting as the main drainage vessel.
- This symmetrical PSV variant has a low prevalence in the general population.
- The identified variant is associated with congenital vascular malformations like Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome.
Implications:
- Accurate identification of the PSV variant is crucial for avoiding iatrogenic injury during clinical procedures.
- Understanding this rare venous anomaly aids in diagnosing and managing related congenital conditions.
- This finding underscores the diversity of lower limb venous anatomy and its clinical relevance.
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