Lower Limb - Popliteal Region (1)

Question 1

Name the four boundaries of the popliteal fossa that form a diamond shape.

Answer 1

Lateral and medial heads of gastrocnemius
Semimembranosus (medially)
Biceps femoris - long head (laterally)

Question 2

What forms the posterior “roof” of the popliteal fossa?

Answer 2

Skin and popliteal fascia.

Question 3

What are the contents of the popliteal fossa?

Answer 3

Terminus of Small Saphenous Vein, emptying into Popliteal vein
Popliteal artery
Sciatic nerve bifurcating into Tibial and Common Fibular
Popliteal lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels

Question 4

In the popliteal fossa, progressing from superficial to deep, which is correct:
A) Vein, Artery, Nerve (tibial nerve)
B) Nerve, Vein, Artery
C) Nerve, Artery, Vein

Answer 4

B.

Tibial nerve –> Popliteal Vein –> Politeal Artery

Question 5

Describe the genicular anastomosis.

Answer 5

The popliteal artery gives rise to five genicular branches:
Superior lateral
Superor medial
Middle
Inferior lateral
Inferior medial
These all anastomose around the knee, supplying the capsule and ligaments of the joint.

Question 6

At what point does the femoral artery become the popliteal artery?

Answer 6

As it passes through the adductor hiatus at the distal end of the adductor canal.