Diameter of the great saphenous vein and its distance from the saphenous nerve at medial malleolus: An ultrasonographic evaluation correlated with anthropometric variables

BACKGROUND: The great saphenous vein (GSV) runs in close proximity to the saphenous nerve (SN) at medial malleolus (MM). Precise spatial relationship of GSV-SN at MM are critical to minimize iatrogenic injuries during invasive procedures. Despite the established clinical relevance, thorough ultrasonographic (USG) data on the distance of these structures remain sparse. This study aimed to determine USG anatomy of GSV-SN at MM, GSV diameter, its subcutaneous depth, distances of GSV-SN; GSV-MM and correlate these with anthropometric variables such as age, height, weight and body mass index (BMI). METHODS: Sixty healthy adult volunteers (120 limbs) aged 20-70 years were involved in this study. USG parameters recorded bilaterally were: GSV diameter, its subcutaneous depth, and distances of GSV-SN; GSV-MM at the ankle. RESULTS: Mean GSV diameter at MM was 8.90±0.76mm, with statistically significant right-left differences (P=0.013). Mean subcutaneous depth of GSV was 15.30±2.23mm with no statistically significant right-left differences (P=0.584). Mean GSV-SN distance was 3.91±0.92mm across all limbs with no statistically significant right-left asymmetry (P=0.737). Mean GSV-MM distance was 15.38±3.36mm with an excellent bilateral symmetry (right: 15.36±3.15mm - left: 15.40±3.58mm; P=0.949). GSV diameter and its subcutaneous depth showed a strong positive correlation with BMI. CONCLUSION: This study provides anatomical and ultrasonographic data that may inform procedural planning, while their impact on procedural safety or complication rates remain to be established prospectively.