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Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome: accurate morphological diagnosis utilizing MRI
H Fujiwara1, T Sugano, N Fujii
1Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Hokushin General Hospital, Nagano, Japan.
Abstract:
A case of bilateral popliteal artery entrapment syndrome was accurately diagnosed utilizing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a 34-year-old male with intermittent claudication. The abnormal structure was clearly visualized in relation to the popliteal artery in T1-weighted sagittal and axial sections of MRI. The type of entrapment was determined by this method prior to surgery. Intermittent claudication disappeared after surgical repair. Our experience emphasizes that MRI facilitates the accurate morphological diagnosis of popliteal artery entrapment syndrome.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) accurately diagnosed bilateral popliteal artery entrapment syndrome in a patient with intermittent claudication. This imaging technique precisely identified the anatomical cause, enabling successful surgical repair and symptom resolution.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a rare condition causing intermittent claudication due to abnormal compression of the popliteal artery.
- Accurate diagnosis of PAES is crucial for effective surgical management.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old male presented with intermittent claudication due to bilateral PAES.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was utilized for diagnosis.
- T1-weighted sagittal and axial MRI sequences clearly visualized the abnormal anatomical structure compressing the popliteal artery.
Findings:
- MRI enabled precise morphological diagnosis of the type of popliteal artery entrapment.
- The specific anatomical abnormality causing the entrapment was identified pre-operatively.
- Surgical repair resulted in the complete resolution of intermittent claudication.
Implications:
- MRI is a highly effective non-invasive tool for the accurate diagnosis of popliteal artery entrapment syndrome.
- Pre-operative MRI diagnosis facilitates tailored surgical planning and improves patient outcomes.
- This case highlights the diagnostic utility of MRI in managing rare vascular compression syndromes.