Giacomini vein

Last revised by Kieran Kusel on 2 Aug 2020

The Giacomini vein or thigh extension of the small saphenous vein refers to a variation in lower limb venous anatomy whereby the small saphenous vein (SSV) continues through to the thigh as a distinct branch.

The persistence of this vein may play a contributory role in the development of chronic venous disease. It is, therefore, an important vein to assess during duplex venous ultrasound assessment of the lower limb. 

Epidemiology

It has a reported prevalence in some form or another of ~75% in the general population 4,5.

History and etymology

It is named after Carlo Giacomini (1840-1898) late Professor of Anatomy at the University of Turin, Italy, who presented a thesis on superficial and deep lower limb venous anatomy in July 1873 3,6. The band of Giacomini and Giacomini vertebrae are also named after this Italian anatomist and neuroscientist 6.

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads