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[Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome. Case report]
M Catani1, G Manili, R De Milito
1Dipartimento di Chirurgia Generale Paride Stefanini, Policlinico Umberto I, Università degli Studi di Roma La Sapienza, Rome, Italy.
Minerva Cardioangiologica
|July 31, 2002
Summary
Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) involves leg artery compression. Surgical release of the gastrocnemius muscle bundle provided complete symptom resolution in a patient with acute PAES.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Anatomy
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a rare condition characterized by compression of the popliteal artery.
- It results from anatomical abnormalities where surrounding muscles or fibrous bands impede blood flow.
- Symptoms range from acute ischemia to chronic exertional leg pain (claudication).
Observation:
- A 44-year-old female presented with acute left calf pain, coldness, paresthesia, and inability to walk.
- Clinical examination revealed signs consistent with acute limb ischemia.
- Early diagnosis facilitated prompt surgical intervention.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with popliteal artery entrapment syndrome.
- Surgical treatment involved a simple division of a myofibrous bundle originating from the medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle.
- This bundle was identified as the cause of popliteal artery compression.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and surgical decompression are crucial for successful management of PAES.
- Simple myofascial release can effectively restore arterial flow and alleviate symptoms.
- This case highlights the importance of considering PAES in acute limb ischemia presentations.