POPLITEAL FOSSA CODE Flashcards
Term
Definition
Popliteal Fossa
A diamond-shaped area located on the posterior aspect of the knee. It is the main path by which vessels and nerves pass between the thigh and the leg.
Borders of the Popliteal Fossa
The four borders of the popliteal fossa are: Superomedial: semimembranosus, Superolateral: biceps femoris, Inferomedial: medial head of the gastrocnemius, Inferolateral: lateral head of the gastrocnemius and plantaris.
Floor of the Popliteal Fossa
The floor is formed by the posterior surface of the knee joint capsule, popliteus muscle, and posterior femur.
Roof of the Popliteal Fossa
The roof consists of two layers: popliteal fascia and skin. The popliteal fascia is continuous with the fascia lata of the leg.
Contents of the Popliteal Fossa
The contents of the popliteal fossa (medial to lateral) include: Popliteal artery, Popliteal vein, Tibial nerve, Common fibular nerve (common peroneal nerve).
Popliteal Artery
A continuation of the femoral artery, it travels into the leg to supply it with blood.
Popliteal Vein
Drains the blood from the leg and joins the small saphenous vein.
Tibial Nerve
A branch of the sciatic nerve, it is one of the most superficial contents of the popliteal fossa.
Common Fibular Nerve
Follows the biceps femoris tendon and travels along the lateral margin of the popliteal fossa.
Small Saphenous Vein
Pierces the popliteal fascia and passes between the two heads of gastrocnemius to empty into the popliteal vein.
Baker’s Cyst
A swelling of the semimembranosus bursa, often associated with osteoarthritis of the knee, which can rupture and produce symptoms similar to deep vein thrombosis.
Popliteal Aneurysm
A dilation of the popliteal artery that may compress the tibial nerve, leading to symptoms like weakened plantar flexion and paraesthesia.
Other Causes of Popliteal Mass
Rarer causes include deep vein thrombosis, adventitial cyst of the popliteal artery, and various neoplasms such as rhabdomyosarcoma.
