Popliteal Artery Occlusion in a Wrestler in the Absence of Known Trauma

In brief: A college wrestler was first seen by an athletic trainer when he complained of a burning pain in his right foot. He recalled no traumatic event that might have caused the pain. He was referred to the athletic department's consulting podiatrist. An examination showed that the patient's right foot was cool and pale and that the pedal pulses were absent. Immediate referral was made to a vascular surgeon. A right femoral arteriogram showed complete occlusion of a 3.5-cm segment of the popliteal artery. A femoral popliteal artery bypass was performed. The patient recovered fully but was discouraged from participating in competitive sports.