From the Guidelines
The popliteal and tibial vein is a deep vein in the lower extremity. This classification is based on the fact that these veins are part of the deep venous system that runs alongside the corresponding arteries in the leg, beneath the deep fascia [ 1 ]. The popliteal vein specifically runs through the popliteal fossa (behind the knee) and continues as the tibial veins as it descends into the lower leg.
Key Characteristics of Deep Veins
- Located beneath the deep fascia
- Responsible for carrying approximately 90% of the venous blood from the lower extremities back to the heart
- Include the common femoral, superficial femoral, and popliteal veins
- Clinically significant due to the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and subsequent pulmonary embolism
According to the American College of Emergency Physicians [ 1 ], the proximal deep veins of the lower extremity, including the popliteal vein, are those in which thrombus poses a significant risk of pulmonary embolization. The formation of the popliteal vein by the confluence of the anterior and posterior tibial veins with the peroneal vein approximately 4-8 cm distal [ 1 ] further supports its classification as a deep vein. In contrast, superficial veins, such as the great and small saphenous veins, run in the subcutaneous tissue above the deep fascia and are not considered part of the deep venous system.
From the Research
Classification of Popliteal and Tibial Vein
- The popliteal and tibial vein is classified as a deep vein, as it is located beneath the deep fascia of the leg 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The deep veins of the leg, including the popliteal and tibial veins, are responsible for returning deoxygenated blood from the lower extremities to the heart 5.
- The popliteal vein is formed by the union of the anterior and posterior tibial veins and the fibular vein, and it empties into the femoral vein 5.
Anatomy of the Popliteal Fossa
- The popliteal fossa is a diamond-shaped space located at the back of the knee, and it contains the popliteal vein, as well as the popliteal artery and nerve 2, 3, 4.
- The popliteal vein is located in the popliteal fossa and is surrounded by the popliteal fascia, which separates it from the superficial veins of the leg 6.
- Variations in the anatomy of the popliteal fossa, including the presence of duplicate or accessory veins, can occur and may have implications for the diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis 2.
Clinical Significance
- The popliteal vein can be affected by various conditions, including deep vein thrombosis, popliteal vein entrapment, and popliteal vein aneurysm 3, 4.
- The diagnosis and treatment of these conditions require a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the popliteal fossa and the popliteal vein 3, 4, 5.
- The popliteal vein plays an important role in the venous return from the lower extremities, and its dysfunction can have significant clinical consequences 6.