The popliteal fossa is an anatomical and hemodynarnic vascular
crossroads. From an anatomical point of view, this region
is the site of convergence of the popliteal, gastrocnemius,
and saphenous networks, as well as many small veins of the
periarticular region of the knee.
From a hemodynamic point of view, it is the site of intense
and sudden pressure variations, as muscle contractions of
the calf induce sudden expression of the large intramuscular
blood volume. Blood flow into the deep network can also he
impaired by postural fascia] or muscular obstacles: breath-holding
effort, compression in the ring of the soleus muscle by an
inflammatory process or fibrous muscle retraction, and the
constraints of flexion-extension. bending, and/or stretching.
The development of varicose veins from perforating veins
of the popliteal fossa reflects the presence of popliteal
venous hypertension. These perforating veins are situated
in the popliteal fossa. They are derived directly from the
popliteal trunk or a duplication and remain anatomically independent
of the short saphenous network
(Figure 96).
Further reading
Dortu J., Dortu JA. Les veines perforantes du membre inférieur : physiologie
et physiopathologie. Phlébologie, 1994; 47: 167-75.
Gillot C. Les veines perforantes inférieures de la jambe, de la cheville
et du pied. Phlébologie, 1994; 47: 76-104.
Thomson H. The surgical anatomy of the superficial and perforating veins of
the lower limb. Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons, 1979; 61: 197-205.
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