Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Understanding the anatomical variations in the branching pattern of the popliteal artery is crucial for surgical and diagnostic procedures involving the lower limb. This descriptive study aimed to examine the branching pattern and termination of the popliteal artery in 70 lower limbs from embalmed cadavers at Government Medical College Thiruvananthapuram and Alappuzha. Cadaveric dissection followed standard anatomical protocols, documenting variations in the origin, termination and branching patterns, with specific assessment of genicular and peroneal arteries. Statistical analysis was performed on recorded data. The study found that 34.3% of the examined limbs exhibited variations, including trifurcation and genicular artery differences. Notably, 11.4% showed a trifurcation pattern, while 2.9% had a high division of the popliteal artery. These findings emphasize the importance of recognizing such variations in clinical settings, particularly for radiologists, vascular surgeons and orthopedic surgeons, to enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve surgical outcomes and minimize complications in lower limb procedures. Further research is recommended to explore the clinical implications of these anatomical variations.
How to cite this article:
S. Maya, Geetha Jayachandran and M. Shefna. Branching Patterns and Anatomical Variations of the Popliteal Artery: A Descriptive Study.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.12.695.701
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2024.12.695.701