From the Guidelines
The medical term for large superficial veins in the lower extremities is varicose veins. These are dilated and usually tortuous subcutaneous veins measuring at least 3 mm in diameter in an upright position, as defined in the study by 1. Varicose veins are distinct from reticular veins (subdermal veins, 1-3 mm in diameter) and telangiectasia (intradermal veins, <1 mm in diameter) [ 1 ]. The development of varicose veins is often associated with primary valvular incompetence or, less commonly, prior deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or extrinsic venous obstruction [ 1 ].
Some key characteristics and facts about varicose veins include:
- They are larger than reticular veins and telangiectasia [ 1 ]
- They can cause symptoms such as chronic lower extremity discomfort, swelling, induration, dermatitis, and ulceration [ 1 ]
- The Clinical Etiologic Anatomic Pathophysiologic (CEAP) classification system is used to categorize venous disease of the legs according to severity, cause, site, and specific abnormality [ 1 ]
- Treatment options for superficial venous insufficiency, which varicose veins are a part of, aim to alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications, and can include surgical removal of the great saphenous vein, vein ablation using laser energy, radiofrequency-generated thermal energy, or chemical sclerosing agents [ 1 ]
Given the information from the study by 1, varicose veins are the correct medical term for large superficial veins in the lower extremities, and understanding their definition, causes, and treatment options is crucial for managing lower extremity chronic venous disease effectively.
From the Research
Medical Term for Large Superficial Veins
The medical term for large superficial veins in the lower extremities is not explicitly defined in the provided studies. However, the studies mention the following types of superficial veins:
- Saphenous veins, which include the great saphenous vein (GSV) and the small saphenous vein (SSV) 2, 3, 4
- Varicose veins, which are enlarged and twisted superficial veins 2, 5
- Perforating veins, which connect the superficial and deep venous systems 2
Characteristics of Superficial Veins
The studies provide the following information about superficial veins:
- They are located close to the skin surface 3
- They can be affected by valvular insufficiency, thrombophlebitis, and varicosis 2, 5, 4
- They can be treated with various methods, including compression therapy, sclerotherapy, and surgical removal 2, 5, 4
Relevant Anatomy
The studies mention the following anatomical features of superficial veins: