Popliteal fossa

Question 1

What is the significance of the popliteal fossa?

Answer 1

Pathway for many blood vessels and nerves

Question 2

Lateral boundary

Answer 2

Biceps femoris and lateral head of gastrocnemius

Question 3

Medial boundary

Answer 3

Semimembranosus, semitendinosus and medial head of gastrocnemius

Question 4

Roof

Answer 4

Deep fascia and skin

Question 5

Floor

Answer 5

Popliteal surface of femur, posterior extrinsic ligaments of the knee and popliteus muscle

Question 6

Name 7 structures that pass through the popliteal fossa

Answer 6

1. Popliteal artery
2. Popliteal vein
3. Common fibular nerve
4. Lesser saphenous vein
5. Tibial nerve
6. Popliteal lymph nodes
7. Posterior femoral cutaneous nerve

Question 7

What is the deepest neurovascular structure in the popliteal fossa?

Answer 7

Popliteal artery

Question 8

What feature at the back of the knee provides collateral circulation to the leg?

Answer 8

Genicular anastomosis (formed from genucular branches)

Question 9

Where does the popliteal artery terminate?

Answer 9

Into the anterior and posterior tibial arteries

Question 10

Abnormal dilation of the popliteal artery leads to what condition?

Answer 10

Popliteal aneurysm

Question 11

Bifurcation of the popliteal artery may be a site for what condition?

Answer 11

Arterial embolism