[Anatomy of the external saphenous vein]

The external saphenous vein forms part of the superficial venous network situated on the posterior surface of the calf. Its pathway is often variable, its conventional termination at the external saphenous arch often lacking, and its treatment by sclerosis or resection of the arch must therefore be approached cautiously. The external saphenous vein possesses numerous anastomoses and collateral pathways with the superficial and deep venous networks: lack of knowledge of their existence is responsible for failure of treatment or relapses after therapy. Arterial and venous relations are also important in order to avoid arterial injection of sclerosing products and paresthesia after long stripping of this vein. Effective knowledge of the anatomical variations of the external saphenous vein determines the good indications and good results of medical or surgical treatment of this vein.