What is perforating vein?

Perforating veins are small veins that connect the superficial veins to the deep veins in the legs. They have one-way valves that allow blood to flow from the superficial veins to the deep veins, but not the other way around.

Perforating veins play an important role in maintaining venous blood flow in the legs by preventing blood from pooling in the superficial veins and reducing the risk of venous insufficiency and varicose veins.

When perforating veins become damaged or incompetent, blood can backflow into the superficial veins, leading to swelling, pain, and discoloration of the skin. This condition is known as perforator vein reflux or perforator vein insufficiency and may require medical treatment, such as vein stripping or endovenous ablation.

Duplex ultrasound is a common diagnostic tool used to evaluate the function of perforating veins and diagnose venous insufficiency.