Nonatheromatous Popliteal Artery Disease

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Vascular Medicine
• Lower Limb Ischemia

Background:

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is commonly attributed to atherosclerosis, often overlooking other causes.
• Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) and popliteal artery adventitial cystic disease (PACD) are significant nonatheromatous contributors to claudication and critical limb ischemia.
• Timely diagnosis and management of these conditions are crucial for limb salvage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the initial treatment outcomes for PAES and PACD affecting the lower limbs.
• To evaluate the efficacy of surgical and conservative interventions for these rare vascular pathologies.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 11 patients with PAES and 2 patients with PACD treated between December 2019 and February 2021.
• Data collected included patient demographics, etiology, affected vessels, surgical techniques, and hemodynamic status.
• Surgical treatment was performed in 10 PAES patients and 2 PACD patients; one PAES patient received conservative management.

Main Results:

• The mean follow-up period was 5.64 months, with a range of 1-12 months.
• All patients experienced symptom improvement or complete resolution.
• Surgical interventions demonstrated a 100% success rate with 100% freedom from reintervention, and no major complications were observed.

Conclusions:

• PAES and PACD necessitate prompt diagnosis and intervention.
• Early surgical treatment for PAES and PACD yields favorable early and mid-term clinical results.
• Aggressive management can prevent disease progression and improve patient limb outcomes.