Vessel
Popliteal artery
Artery behind the knee
High-yield
Deepest structure in the popliteal fossa; vulnerable in knee dislocation and posterior knee trauma. Divides at the lower border of popliteus.
Overview
The continuation of the femoral artery through the popliteal fossa that divides into the anterior and posterior tibial arteries below the knee.
Reference facts
- Type
Muscular artery
- Origin
Femoral artery (via the adductor hiatus)
- Branches / tributaries
Genicular arteries; Anterior tibial artery; Posterior tibial artery (terminal branches)
- Supplies
The knee joint and the leg
- Course
Descends through the popliteal fossa deep to the tibial nerve and popliteal vein, dividing at the inferior border of popliteus
Clinical correlation
Popliteal artery injury in knee dislocation threatens the limb — check distal pulses.