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What is a Popliteal Artery Aneurysm?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr S S Amarendra Babu , Vascular Endovascular Surgeon
A popliteal artery aneurysm is an abnormal bulging or dilation of the main artery located behind the knee joint. This bulge forms when the arterial wall weakens and expands, much like a balloon. Though often silent in the early stages, this condition can become dangerous if the aneurysm bursts, clots, or blocks blood flow to the lower leg.
Many cases are found in both legs and are frequently linked with aneurysms in the abdominal aorta, making full-body vascular screening important.
What Are the Symptoms of a Popliteal Aneurysm?
Most people don't notice symptoms in the beginning. However, as the aneurysm grows or begins to affect blood flow, noticeable signs may appear. A rupture or clot can lead to serious emergencies.
- Pain or discomfort behind the knee
- Swelling in the lower leg or foot
- Coldness or numbness in the foot or toes
- Weakness or heaviness in the leg
- Pale or discolored skin in the lower leg
What Are the Causes and Risk Factors?
Popliteal aneurysms happen when the artery behind the knee weakens and bulges. Understanding what causes this and who's at risk can help with early prevention. Age, smoking, and other vascular problems often play a role.
Possible causes
- Arterial wall degeneration due to atherosclerosis
- Inflammatory vascular conditions
- Previous trauma or injury to the leg
- Congenital defects or abnormalities
- Artery entrapment behind the knee
Risk factors include
- Age over 50
- Male gender
- Family history of aneurysms
- Smoking or tobacco use
- High blood pressure or cholesterol
- White ethnicity
- Connective tissue disorders
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Get Second OpinionHow is a Popliteal Aneurysm Diagnosed?
Popliteal artery aneurysms are often found during routine exams or while investigating leg pain or swelling. Because they can mimic other conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis or cysts, accurate testing is essential.
- Physical exam: The doctor may feel a throbbing lump behind your knee.
- Duplex ultrasound: This is the first test used to check blood flow and how big the aneurysm is.
- CT or MR angiography: These scans give a clear picture of the artery and show if there are any blood clots.
- Digital subtraction angiography: Used in more complicated cases to help plan surgery.
What Are the Treatment Options for Popliteal Aneurysm?
Treatment depends on the size, symptoms, and whether a clot is present. Small, symptomless aneurysms may only need regular monitoring. Larger or symptomatic aneurysms often require surgical repair to prevent complications.
- Open surgical repair: The aneurysm is bypassed with a vein graft to restore proper blood flow.
- Endovascular repair: A stent graft is placed inside the artery to redirect blood flow.
- Thrombolytic therapy: Clot-busting medication or mechanical removal may be used before repair.
What Are the Possible Complications?
If not treated in time, a popliteal aneurysm can lead to serious problems like blood clots, leg pain, or even tissue loss. Knowing the risks helps you act early and avoid lasting damage.
- Blood clots that block leg arteries
- Rupture of the artery, causing internal bleeding
- Nerve compression behind the knee
- Vein compression or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Limb loss due to reduced blood flow
What is the Outlook After Treatment?
The outlook is generally positive, especially if the aneurysm is treated before it causes symptoms. Open bypass surgery has high long-term success rates, and endovascular repair offers quicker recovery.
- Hospital stay: Usually 2 to 3 days after open surgery; less for endovascular repair
- Recovery time: Most people resume light activity within weeks
- Follow-up: Regular imaging may be needed to monitor grafts or stents
When to See a Doctor?
If you notice pain, swelling, or a pulsating mass behind your knee, it's important to consult a healthcare provider right away. Even if you don't have symptoms, those at higher risk, such as individuals over 50, men, or those with a family history of aneurysms, should undergo regular vascular screenings.
Early detection of a popliteal aneurysm can prevent serious complications like blood clots, reduced blood flow, or even limb loss. Seek immediate care if you experience sudden numbness, coldness in the leg, or discoloration, as these may signal an emergency.
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How Can I Prevent Popliteal Aneurysms?
While you can't prevent every case, you can lower your chances with healthy lifestyle choices and regular checkups. Managing risk factors like smoking, blood pressure, and cholesterol is key.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products
- Control blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Eat a heart-healthy diet
- Exercise regularly
- Manage conditions like diabetes
Living with a Popliteal Aneurysm
If you've been diagnosed with a popliteal artery aneurysm, managing your vascular health is key. Avoid high-impact leg activity without guidance, take any prescribed medications like antiplatelets, and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your condition.
Our Experience in Treating Popliteal Artery Aneurysm
At Medicover, we provide advanced and patient-focused care for individuals with popliteal artery aneurysms. Our vascular doctors use advanced scans and gentle procedures to find and treat aneurysms early before problems start.
We create personalized treatment plans, including surgery or stent options, to improve blood flow and protect your leg. From diagnosis through recovery, our team supports patients with compassion, precision, and long-term vascular care.
