[Venous stasis caused by extrinsic compression of the popliteal area]

The authors present three clinical cases of venous compression of the popliteal area. They are two popliteal cysts and one tibial exostosis. A relatively frequent popliteal artery aneurysm and a few iatrogenic cases, complete the list of possible differential diagnoses. Ultrasonography seems to present definite advantages concerning its use and aiding phlebography, arteriography and arthrography in detecting a popliteal "mass" causing a proximal venous stasis.