A study of the internal diameter of popliteal artery, anterior and posterior tibial arteries in cadavers

Abstract

Introduction: Popliteal artery is the continuation of femoral artery at adductor hiatus. It is one of the most common sites for peripheral aneurysms. It is also a common recipient site for above or below knee femoro-popliteal bypass grafts in cases of atherosclerosis. The aim was to study the internal diameter of popliteal artery, anterior tibial and posterior tibial arteries and to compare findings of the current study with previous studies and to find their clinical implications. Methods: Fifty cadavers (100 lower limbs) embalmed with 10% formalin were utilised in this study. Results: Internal diameter of popliteal artery was measured at its origin and at its termination. The diameter of popliteal artery at its origin was found to be (mean in mm ± SD) 4.7±0.9 & at its termination was 4.4±0.7. The diameter of anterior tibial artery at its origin was 3.5±1.1 & that of posterior tibial artery at its origin was 4.1±0.9. These findings were compared with the previous studies. Conclusion: Metric data of internal diameter of popliteal artery, anterior tibial artery & posterior tibial artery from the present study will be of help for vascular surgeons & radiologists. Keywords: Popliteal artery, Anterior tibial artery, Posterior tibial artery, Internal diameter, Peripheral aneurysm