Popliteal artery injury associated with knee dislocation: improved outlook?

Popliteal artery injury due to knee dislocation is an injury complex that is being reported with increasing frequency. A review of the literature from 1974 to 1978 reveals 40 new cases. Of these cases, 85 per cent underwent successful arterial repair, an encouraging figure. although few, large individual series exist, it is felt that an improved prognosis may be expected. Four case reports from the last year at the author's institution are presented. Various aspects of diagnosis and treatment are analyzed and recommended.