The superficial venous system of the lower extremity: new nomenclature.

The phlebology in the area of lower limbs is the only medical field in which the terminological needs of clinicians were met. Ten years ago, the latest revision of the Latin anatomical nomenclature, Terminologia Anatomica (TA), was issued. But almost none of the chapters reflected the clinicians' need to be a relevant theoretical base for correct diagnostics and appropriate treatment. In 2001, during the 14th World Congress of the International Union of Phlebology, a consensus document (under the auspices of Federative International Committee on Anatomical Terminology and International Federation of Associations of Anatomists) was laid to expand the nomenclature of the lower extremity venous system. Some terms have been changed and several new have been added, corresponding to their clinical significance and anatomical positions. Sixteen new terms have been added in both Latin and English languages in the chapter concerning the superficial veins of the lower limb. This consensus document will be incorporated into the next version of the TA. The international anatomical nomenclature serves as a communication base for research, diagnostic, therapy and information exchange in phlebological sciences.