The popliteal artery is a continuation of the femoral artery that runs through the popliteal fossa (the space behind the knee) before dividing into the anterior tibial artery and the tibioperoneal trunk below the knee. It is the primary blood supply to the lower leg and foot. On ultrasound, the popliteal artery is assessed for atherosclerotic plaque and stenosis as part of peripheral arterial evaluation, and it is a common site for popliteal artery aneurysm — one of the most frequent peripheral aneurysms. A popliteal artery aneurysm appears as a focal dilation, typically defined as a diameter greater than 1.5 times the expected normal size, and carries a risk of thrombosis and distal embolization. Entrapment of the popliteal artery by surrounding muscle is another condition evaluated with dynamic ultrasound.
Sonography Term