A review of literature along with a cadaveric study of the prevalence of the Giacomini vein (the thigh extension of the small saphenous vein) in the Indian population.

Short saphenous has most variable anatomy in the inferior extremity which become more relevant especially in varicose vein surgery. Present study on cadavers was undertaken to report the prevalence of the thigh extension of the short saphenous vein (Giacomini vein) in the Indian population and to discuss it with the prior studies reported in the literature on other populations. Dissection was performed on both the sides of 50 embalmed cadavers to study the prevalence of the Giacomini vein. Mode of termination of the proximal extension of the short saphenous vein in the thigh was studied for different criteria. Ninety-two percent of the lower extremities showed prevalence of the Giacomini vein. In 71% specimens the short saphenous vein terminated into the popliteal vein. Most common mode of extension in the thigh was anastomosis with the great saphenous vein. Prevalence of Giacomini vein in Indian population was highest (92%) compared to previous studies by various authors in other populations. Aforementioned anatomical facts including the mode of termination of the thigh extension of the short saphenous vein can be important for surgeons planning intervention in this area. The complex anatomy of this vein and different reports in the literature regarding its clinical significance suggest further studies in this direction.