Persistent Sciatic Veins

Abstract

Persistence of the sciatic vein is a venous anomaly located in the lower limbs. Accounts in the literature rarely include patients who do not have the Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome. We present a case of a woman with bilateral persistent sciatic veins and no Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome, first suspected on a duplex ultrasound examination and then confirmed by computed tomography angiography. Persistent sciatic vein is a rare venous anomaly. Although the prevalence of persistent sciatic veins is possibly underestimated, we should be aware of its presence, considering its relevance in contributing to venous disease.

Beyond The Ordinary: A Case of a Unilateral Persistent Sciatic Vein

“…PSV can manifest unilaterally or bilaterally and may appear as a single substantial vein or a network of veins. Additionally, it may coincide with a persistent sciatic artery or exhibit distinct forms [3,13,14]. While the persistent unilateral sciatic vein is often asymptomatic, it can have implications for venous return and potentially increase the risk of thrombotic events including pulmonary thromboembolism [6,11,15].…”

“…The diagnosis of a persistent unilateral sciatic vein can be challenging due to its rarity and the lack of awareness among clinicians. Noninvasive radiological imaging techniques, such as Doppler ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, play a crucial role in identifying this anomaly and have largely replaced the traditional invasive methods such as varicography and ascending phlebography [3,14]. Increased awareness and consideration of this anatomical variation in the differential diagnosis of lower limb venous disorders are vital to ensure accurate patient management.…”

“…Minor cases may be suitable for procedures like stab avulsion, stripping, or varicosity excision. Severe cases of claudication might call for surgical removal of the PSV, if there's a functioning superficial and deep femoral venous system [12][13][14]. In femoral venous system hypoplasia, reconstruction could involve using the great saphenous vein from the unaffected side via a popliteal veingreat saphenous vein anastomosis [3,12].…”