Which veins are commonly mapped for lower extremities?

The great saphenous vein is the correct answer because it plays a crucial role in vascular procedures and is often the focus of mapping for lower extremity interventions. This vein is the longest in the body, running along the length of the leg from the ankle to the groin, and is widely recognized for its importance in venous flow.

Mapping the great saphenous vein is commonly performed prior to procedures such as varicose vein treatments or to assess for venous insufficiency. Its large diameter and superficial location make it particularly accessible with ultrasound imaging, allowing for detailed assessment of its anatomy and any potential abnormalities.

The other veins listed, while important in their own right, are not typically the primary focus for lower extremity mapping. For instance, the femoral veins are deeper structures that are generally assessed in different clinical scenarios, like DVT evaluation or during catheterization procedures. The cephalic and basilic veins are primarily associated with the upper extremities, particularly in the context of access for intravenous therapies or hemodialysis, and are less relevant when discussing mapping in the lower extremities.