Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome in Athletes

In brief When a young person presents with typical symptoms of claudication that are relieved with rest, physicians should consider a vascular abnormality in the popliteal fossa. The popliteal artery may become entrapped because a cyst or fibrous band compresses the artery or because the artery deviates from its normal course. This article describes the diagnosis and treatment of popliteal artery entrapment syndrome and discusses two case reports. Arteriography is needed to establish the definitive diagnosis. Surgery relieving the entrapment is indicated to alleviate symptoms and to prevent possible future disability from arterial thrombosis and distal embolization or occlusion. This therapy provides excellent results.