Popliteal artery branching patterns detected by digital subtraction angiography.

PURPOSE To describe the popliteal and distal branching patterns detected by digital subtraction angiography. MATERIALS AND METHODS The popliteal branching patterns were analyzed in 535 extremities (270 right, 265 left). Of these, 226 limbs were evaluated bilaterally, while 83 were evaluated unilaterally. The branching patterns were classified according to the level of branching and the presence of hypoplasia or aplasia of the distal branches. RESULTS Four hundred and seventy-two (88.1%) limbs had a normal level of popliteal artery branching. Type IA was the most frequently encountered pattern. High division of the popliteal artery was seen in 30 (5.6%) limbs. Type IIA was the most frequently encountered pattern among these limbs. Type IIC was not seen. We encountered a new pattern characterized by high division of the peroneal artery with a trifurcation pattern and an anterior tibial artery with a proximal medial course and a distal lateral course. We called this pattern Type IID. Thirty-three (6.1%) limbs exhibited hypoplasia/aplasia of the distal branches. Type IIIA was the most frequently encountered pattern among these limbs. CONCLUSION Variations that occur in nearly 10% of patients should be understood because they may affect the choice of management strategy.