What is the superficial fascia of the back of the leg?

The superficial fascia of the back of the leg is a layer of connective tissue that contains superficial veins and cutaneous nerves. It supports structures like the small saphenous vein and sural nerve, which are key for drainage and sensation in the posterior leg.

What is the small saphenous vein and what does it do?

The small saphenous vein is a superficial vein that forms from the lateral dorsal venous arch and lateral digital vein of the little toe. It ascends behind the lateral malleolus, runs up the posterior leg, and drains into the popliteal vein, draining blood from the lateral foot, ankle, and posterior leg while being accompanied by the sural nerve.

Which nerves provide sensation to the skin on the back of the leg?

Sensation to the skin on the back of the leg is provided by seven cutaneous nerves, including the sural nerve (L5, S1, S2) for the lower lateral calf and lateral foot, the saphenous nerve (L3, L4) for the medial leg, and others like the posterior cutaneous nerve of thigh and medial calcaneal branch for areas like the upper central calf and heel.

How does the sural nerve relate to the small saphenous vein?

The sural nerve runs alongside the small saphenous vein in the posterior leg. It supplies sensation to the lower lateral calf, lateral foot border, and little toe, making this neurovascular bundle important for both drainage and sensory function in that region.

What is the role of the medial calcaneal branch?

The medial calcaneal branch (S1, S2) is a cutaneous nerve that pierces the flexor retinaculum to supply sensation to the skin of the heel and medial sole. It is one of the nerves involved in innervating the posterior leg and foot.

Where does the small saphenous vein drain into?

The small saphenous vein drains into the popliteal vein after ascending in the midline of the posterior leg. This connection is part of the venous drainage system for the lower limb.

Posterior Leg Superficial Fascia – Veins & Nerves