Arteries of the Lower Limb-Embryology, Variations, and Clinical Significance.

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review the embryology of the lower limb arterial anatomy along with common variants and their clinical relevance. Embryologic variations of the lower limb arterial system may be explained by i.) persistence of primordial arterial segments, ii.) abnormal fusion, iii.) segmental hypoplasia/absence, or a combination of both. Persistent sciatic artery, corona mortis, and popliteal entrapment syndrome will also be discussed with associated symptoms, and potential complications. Knowledge of these variations is essential for surgical and endovascular management as failure to recognize them can result in complications.