Chapter 20 - Section 20.8 - Systemic Vessels of the Appendicular Region - Before You Go On - Page 794: 33

**1. Clinical Significance of the Great Saphenous Vein:** - **Varicose Veins:** The great saphenous vein has special clinical significance due to its propensity to develop varicose veins. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that can occur when the valves within the veins do not function properly, causing blood to pool and the veins to become dilated. The great saphenous vein is commonly affected by this condition, leading to discomfort, pain, and cosmetic concerns. - **Surgical Procedures:** The great saphenous vein is often used as a graft in various surgical procedures, particularly in coronary artery bypass surgery. Its relatively large size and accessibility make it a suitable conduit for bypassing blocked or damaged coronary arteries, restoring blood flow to the heart. **2. Location of the Great Saphenous Vein:** The great saphenous vein is located within the lower limb, specifically in the leg. It is the longest vein in the body, extending from the medial side of the foot, running along the inner leg, thigh, and eventually connecting with the femoral vein near the groin. It plays a crucial role in draining blood from the superficial structures of the leg and thigh, facilitating venous return to the heart. The clinical significance of the great saphenous vein, both in terms of its susceptibility to varicose veins and its utility in surgical procedures, underscores the importance of understanding its anatomy and function in medical practice.

**1. Clinical Significance of the Great Saphenous Vein:** - **Varicose Veins:** The great saphenous vein has special clinical significance due to its propensity to develop varicose veins. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that can occur when the valves within the veins do not function properly, causing blood to pool and the veins to become dilated. The great saphenous vein is commonly affected by this condition, leading to discomfort, pain, and cosmetic concerns. - **Surgical Procedures:** The great saphenous vein is often used as a graft in various surgical procedures, particularly in coronary artery bypass surgery. Its relatively large size and accessibility make it a suitable conduit for bypassing blocked or damaged coronary arteries, restoring blood flow to the heart. **2. Location of the Great Saphenous Vein:** The great saphenous vein is located within the lower limb, specifically in the leg. It is the longest vein in the body, extending from the medial side of the foot, running along the inner leg, thigh, and eventually connecting with the femoral vein near the groin. It plays a crucial role in draining blood from the superficial structures of the leg and thigh, facilitating venous return to the heart. The clinical significance of the great saphenous vein, both in terms of its susceptibility to varicose veins and its utility in surgical procedures, underscores the importance of understanding its anatomy and function in medical practice.