Popliteal Artery Aneurysm

Popliteal artery aneurysm refers to an abnormal dilatation of the artery behind the knee that conveys blood from the leg to the foot.  Although predominantly caused by atherosclerosis. aneurysms may develop as a result of infection, blunt or penetrating trauma or connective tissue disorders.  They are often associated with aneurysms elsewhere in the body, including aortic and femoral artery aneurysms, and are often identified as an incidental finding during routine examination or radiological investigation.

However, they may cause acute or chronic lower limb ischaemia, or rarely rupture and thus their identification and subsequent management is vitally important to quality of life and life expectancy.