Presurgical Radiologic Delineation of Popliteal Pterygium Syndrome: Case Report

Abstract

Popliteal pterygium refers to the presence of an abnormal triangular fold of connective tissue occuring in the knee extending from the ischium to the os calcis. The popliteal artery and peroneal nerve are abnormally located within or adjacent to the pterygium. Since their preservation is important, knowledge of their exact location before surgery is essential. Hence, the role of preoperative imaging. We present here the radiologic features of a popliteal pterygium and the position of neurovascular structures in 18 months-old boy referred to radiology department for presurgical delineation. MRI is the imaging test of choice for the presurgical delineation in children who are candidate to surgical correction of contractures of popliteal pterygium. It may depict the popliteal artery and posterior tibial and peroneal nerves either in the normal position or abnormally located to the pterygium.