[1] At the knee, it runs over the posterior border of the medial epicondyle of the femur bone.

Pathology of the great saphenous vein is relatively common, but in isolation typically not life-threatening.

The great saphenous vein is the conduit of choice for vascular surgeons,[5] when available, for performing peripheral arterial bypass operations.

Removal of the saphenous vein will not materially hinder normal circulation in the leg.

When emergency resuscitation with fluids is necessary, and standard intravenous access cannot be achieved due to venous collapse, saphenous vein cutdown may be utilized.