The small saphenous vein is present just underneath the skin (subcutaneous). It originates at the point where the dorsal vein of the fifth (smallest) toe joins the dorsal venous arch of the foot, which in turn joins the great saphenous vein.

COURSE

The small saphenous vein passes behind the lateral malleolus and passes along the lateral aspect of the foot. It crosses the leg on its posterior side and then passes between the heads of a muscle called the gastrocnemius muscle.

DRAINAGE

The small saphenous vein ends at the level of the knee joint. It ends by draining into the popliteal vein.