Popliteal vessels and popliteus (dave's notes)

Question 1

How long is the popliteal artery?

Answer 1

The largest of the neurovascular structures (??in the fossa?), approx 20cm long.

Question 2

Where in the fossa is the popliteal artery found?

Answer 2

Initially lies medially (M to TN) then tends laterally (lateral to tendinosus) and the returns to lie M to TN

Question 3

Where is the popliteal vein found relative to the artery and nerve?

Answer 3

At all levels the vein lies between the artery and nerve, formed by the venue comitantes

Question 4

Where does the popliteal artery divide? Into what?

Answer 4

Under the fibrous arch of soleus it divides into anterior and posterior tibial arteries.

Question 5

What are the arterial branches of the popliteal artery?

Answer 5

To the two heads of gastrocnemius - (the sural arteries, = end arteries)
Genicular arteries (5 - upper lateral and upper medial; encircle the femur, and lower lateral and lower medial; encircle the tibial, and middle pierces the posterior ligament to supply the cruciate ligaments

Question 6

What is the arterial supply to the cruciate ligaments?

Answer 6

The middle genicular artery pierces the posterior ligament to supply the cruciate ligaments

Question 7

Describe the popliteal lymph nodes. Where do they receive from and send to?

Answer 7

Relatively few in number. Receive from the lower limb and send to the deep inguinal ring.

Question 8

What is the origin and insertion of popliteus?

Answer 8

Origin: Posterior shaft of tibia above the soleal line and below the tibial condyles
Insertion: A facet on the lateral surface of the lateral condyle

Question 9

What is the action and innervation of popliteus?

Answer 9

Action: Unlocks the extended knee by lateral rotation of the femur on tibia. Also pulls back the lateral meniscus.
Innervation: Tibial nerve

Question 10

Where does the tendon of popliteus pass to?

Answer 10

The tendon passes into the capsule of the knee with a few fibres attaching to the lateral meniscus