Popliteal artery

In human anatomy, the popliteal artery is defined as the extension of the femoral artery after passing through the adductor canal above the knee. It gives-off a branch to the lateral compartment of the leg, known as the peroneal artery and then bifurcates into the anterior tibial artery and posterior tibial artery.

Related Topics:
Human anatomy - Femoral artery - Adductor canal - Knee - Lateral compartment of the leg - Peroneal artery - Anterior tibial artery - Posterior tibial artery

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The popliteal artery, through numerous smaller branches, supplies blood to the knee joint and muscles in the thigh and calf. It is accompanied, along its length, by the popliteal vein.

Related Topics:
Knee joint - Muscle - Thigh - Calf - Popliteal vein

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Embryologically, the popliteal artery is derived from the fetal sciatic artery, which is distinct from the femoral artery.

Related Topics:
Fetal sciatic artery - Artery

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Its pulse can be palpated behind the knee, but is generally more challenging to find than other arteries of the leg.

Related Topics:
Pulse - Palpated - Knee

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