Popliteal vein
Vena poplitea
The popliteal vein is the deep vein behind the knee. It forms at the lower border of popliteus from the veins accompanying the tibial arteries, receives the small saphenous vein, and becomes the femoral vein at the adductor hiatus.
Overview
In the popliteal fossa the vein lies between the popliteal artery, which is deeper, and the tibial nerve, which is more superficial. The order from deep to superficial is artery, vein, nerve. The vein is often doubled. It contains several valves.
Anatomy
- Tributaries
The anterior and posterior tibial veins (which form it), the fibular veins, the small saphenous vein, and the genicular and sural (gastrocnemius and soleal) veins.
Function
- Drains the leg and foot, including the calf muscle pump, into the femoral vein.
Clinical significance
Popliteal DVT
A thrombus in the popliteal vein counts as a proximal DVT and needs anticoagulation.
Ruptured Baker's cyst
A ruptured popliteal (Baker's) cyst causes a painful, swollen calf that can mimic DVT. Ultrasound tells them apart.
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Cardiovascular System sources. For education only; not medical advice.