Site-specific mechanical properties of the human great saphenous vein: Cadaveric comparisons among the thigh, knee, and lower leg harvest sites

Abstract

Background This study aimed to determine site-specific mechanical properties of the great saphenous vein (GSV) harvested from various sites in the same cadaver. Methods GSV samples were harvested from three sites: the thigh, knee, and lower leg. The thickness and diameter of the samples were measured, and the tensile test was performed to measure stiffness and Young’s modulus. Results The stiffness of the GSV harvested from knees in the longitudinal direction was lower than those from other sites, whereas the stiffness of the GSV harvested from the lower leg in the circumferential direction was lower than that from the thigh. Conclusions The GSV has site-specific mechanical properties. Thus, in addition to morphological evaluations such as echo and computed tomography in preoperative graft surgical evaluations, knowledge of the mechanical properties at each site can improve the patency rate and prevent aneurysmal expansion.

Statins effects on venous wall in patients with chronic venous disease

“…There are literature data which claim that the thickness of the GSV wall may increases with age, and it could be also slightly influenced by patient's gender [12,13]. Although this study included patients a wide range of ages, and the groups were made up of patients of both sexes, we did not identify statistically significant correlations between these parameters, the thickness of the venous wall, or the total diameter of the vessel.…”