ABSTRACT

Entrapment of popliteal artery is a rare cause for leg ischemia. The reason is a congenital anomaly which is the result of mistake in the prenatal development of the popliteal area. Popliteal artery is entrapped by the medial head of the gastrocnemius or fibrous band which arises from the same muscle. Permanent muscle contractions cause microinjury of popliteal artery which leads to the damage of artery walls and possible thrombosis or distal embolisation.

The article presents a review of the literature and a case report of patient with critical leg ischemia caused by popliteal artery entrapment.