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Branching patterns of the popliteal artery and its clinical importance
Zuhal Ozgur1, Hulya Ucerler, Z Asli Aktan Ikiz
1Ataturk Medical Technology Vocational Training School, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey.
Purpose:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the popliteal artery branching patterns and related measurements.
Methods:
A cadaveric study in forty lower limbs was performed to improve the understanding of anatomy of the popliteal artery and its main branches.
Results:
Normal branching of the popliteal artery was present in 36 specimens (90%). High origin of the anterior tibial artery was seen in two specimens (5%). The bifurcation was at the level of proximal border of popliteus, but the posterior tibial artery originated directly from the popliteal artery in one specimen (2.5%). Trifurcation pattern with no trunk was observed in one specimen (2.5%).
Conclusions:
We believe that a review of the anatomic characteristics of the popliteal artery and its branches will be beneficial for the surgical approaches and the choice of suitable arterial graft sites.
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Preparation: