Popliteal Vein

vena poplitea

The popliteal vein is the main deep vein of the knee and posterior thigh, draining into the femoral vein. Deep vein thrombosis occurs frequently in the popliteal vein — isolated popliteal DVT carries a 20-30% risk of proximal propagation to the femoral vein and subsequent pulmonary embolism. The saphenopopliteal junction (where the short saphenous vein joins the popliteal) is the target for short saphenous vein surgery for varicose veins.

Region: Knee

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Union of the anterior and posterior tibial veins at the lower border of the popliteus

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Popliteal DVT diagnosed by compression duplex ultrasound (the vein fails to compress with probe pressure over the vein) requires therapeutic anticoagulation. Calf DVT (isolated to the infrapopliteal veins) is more controversial — surveillance ultrasound at 1-2 weeks to confirm non-propagation is an accepted strategy in low-risk patients.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Popliteal DVT

Deep vein thrombosis in the popliteal vein diagnosed by compression duplex requiring therapeutic anticoagulation to prevent pulmonary embolism.