[Biradicular origin of the popliteal vein]

The biradicular origin of the popliteal vein was affirmed 84 times out of 100 dissections, and confirmed by phlebography. But the anatomical bifurcation fades into insignificance beside the important notion of functional bifurcation, with strong roots, equal to or above 5 mm. It exists in this form in 56% of all cases. The most interesting arrangement in practice is the popliteal fork with equilibrated medial and lateral roots, absolutely equal, or only very slightly asymmetric. This variety, observed 21 times, uni- or bilateral, leads us to reconsider the investigative methods in the diagnosis of popliteal thrombosis. In reparatory arterial surgery, if offers a radicular graft of excellent calibre, with a well built wall, but which is perhaps limited for such a purpose.