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Popliteal artery entrapment: an evolving syndrome
P S Collins1, P T McDonald, R C Lim
1Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, San Francisco, CA.
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome, a cause of leg pain in young adults, was diagnosed using treadmill tests and arteriography. This study found bilateral involvement in 67% of patients, a higher rate than previously reported.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a rare condition causing calf claudication and potential limb ischemia in young adults.
- It results from abnormal anatomical variations leading to extrinsic compression of the popliteal artery during movement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate patients diagnosed with popliteal artery entrapment syndrome.
- To define the syndrome, diagnostic methods, and associated anatomical anomalies.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 12 patients diagnosed with PAES between 1977 and 1988.
- Diagnosis involved treadmill testing to assess ankle-brachial index (ABI) changes and biplanar arteriography with dynamic maneuvers (dorsiflexion and plantar flexion).
Main Results:
- The average patient age was 27, with most under 40. Calf claudication was the primary symptom.
- Treadmill testing and dynamic arteriography confirmed extrinsic compression or occlusion of the popliteal artery in all patients.
- Bilateral entrapment occurred in 67% of patients, with Type IV lesions being most common (37%).
Conclusions:
- Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome should be considered in young adults presenting with claudication.
- The study highlights a higher prevalence of bilateral PAES than previously documented.
- Dynamic arteriography and treadmill testing are effective diagnostic tools for PAES.