Computed Tomographic Angiography and Digital Subtraction Angiography Findings in Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome

Objective: To evaluate computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) findings in popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES). Methods: Nine patients (13 limbs) who underwent surgical treatment for PAES were evaluated retrospectively. All cases showed various anomalous relationships between the popliteal artery and the neighboring muscular structures. Both CTA and DSA were performed on each affected limb. Results: Computed tomographic angiography showed the detailed anatomy of the region well enough and established the diagnosis of PAES in all of the cases. Characterization and classification based on CTA imaging were consistent with surgical photography. Deviation, occlusion, aneurysm, and stenosis of popliteal artery can be demonstrated by CTA and DSA. Digital subtraction angiography was diagnostic in 6 limbs in 5 patients. Conclusion: Computed tomographic angiography can demonstrate both the vascular changes and the anatomic variations in the popliteal fossa and may be valuable in the diagnosis of PAES.