Morphology of the communicating veins of the lower 3d of the leg
Stolic, E.
Bulletin de l'Association des Anatomistes 60(169): 431-437
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0376-6160 PMID: 1021175 Document Number: 102823
The communicating veins of the lower third of the leg are topographically constant communicating veins but variable as to their morphology and number. Their course shows topographically two parts, namely a superficial or subcutaneous one and a deep or subaponeurotic one. In their subaponeurotical course, the communicating veins change their morphological aspect and sometimes become very complex. These communicating veins show valves, and venous blood is directed towards the depth. They also receive collateral branches emanating from adjacent muscles. Two kinds of communicating veins can be distinguished, a direct and a mixed one. The direct communicating veins predominate on the internal side of the leg. These connect the venous system of the great saphenous vein with the posterior tibial veins. On the external side, the mixed communicating veins predominate. They link the venous system of the short saphenous vein with the peroneal veins. Their function is also studied.