Vessel
Popliteal artery
Deep arterial supply behind the knee
High-yield
Of the main artery, vein and tibial nerve behind the knee, the artery is deepest. Its usual distal division gives an anterior tibial artery and a short tibioperoneal trunk leading to the posterior tibial and fibular arteries.
Overview
After the femoral artery passes through the adductor hiatus, it becomes the popliteal artery. It descends behind the knee, supplies the joint and nearby muscles, and gives rise to the arteries serving the leg and foot.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Continuation of the femoral artery beyond the adductor hiatus
- Course
- Descends against the deep floor of the popliteal fossa, beneath the popliteal vein and tibial nerve; branching usually occurs near the lower border of popliteus
- Branches
- Five principal genicular branches, muscular branches, the anterior tibial artery and usually a tibioperoneal trunk; branching patterns vary
- Supplies
- Knee joint and adjacent muscles directly, with the leg and foot supplied through its terminal arterial network
Clinical correlation
Knee dislocation can damage the popliteal artery and threaten the limb. A foot pulse may still be present despite arterial injury, so urgent vascular assessment requires more than a pulse check alone.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the popliteal artery originate?
The popliteal artery arises from the continuation of the femoral artery beyond the adductor hiatus.
What does the popliteal artery supply?
The popliteal artery supplies the knee joint and adjacent muscles directly, with the leg and foot supplied through its terminal arterial network.
What are the branches of the popliteal artery?
Five principal genicular branches, muscular branches, the anterior tibial artery and usually a tibioperoneal trunk; branching patterns vary.
What is the course of the popliteal artery?
Descends against the deep floor of the popliteal fossa, beneath the popliteal vein and tibial nerve; branching usually occurs near the lower border of popliteus.