Where is the popliteal vein located?
The popliteal vein is found within the popliteal fossa. The popliteal fossa is defined by the biceps femoris proximolaterally; the semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles proximomedially; and gastrocnemius distally. The tibial nerve, popliteal vein, and popliteal artery are all found within the fossa.
Is the popliteal vein DVT?

The popliteal vein is one of the most common locations for a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or blood clot within a vein, to occur. This is very dangerous as there is a risk of the blood clot breaking free and traveling to the heart or lungs and causing a pulmonary embolism (PE).
What vein comes off the popliteal?
The popliteal vein is a vein of the lower limb. It is formed from the anterior tibial vein and the posterior tibial vein. It travels medial to the popliteal artery, and becomes the femoral vein. It drains blood from the leg….
Popliteal vein | |
---|---|
Drains to | femoral vein |
Artery | popliteal artery |
Identifiers | |
Latin | vena poplitea |
Is popliteal vein superficial or deep?
The popliteal vein is superficial to the popliteal artery at the posterior knee (Fig. 4E).

Is popliteal vein proximal or distal?
Proximal DVT is one that is located in the popliteal, femoral, or iliac veins. Isolated distal DVT has no proximal component, is located below the knee, and is confined to the calf veins (peroneal, posterior, anterior tibial, and muscular veins) (table 1).
How do you rule out venous insufficiency?
To diagnose CVI, your doctor will perform a complete medical history and physical exam. During the physical exam, the doctor will carefully examine your legs. A test called a vascular or duplex ultrasound may be used to examine the blood circulation in your legs.
Can ultrasound detect blood clot in leg?
Venous ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the veins in the body. It is commonly used to search for blood clots, especially in the veins of the leg – a condition often referred to as deep vein thrombosis. Ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation and has no known harmful effects.
Is popliteal vein deep or superficial?
How serious is venous insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency is not a serious health threat. But it can be painful and disabling.
What is the most common cause of venous insufficiency?
CVI most commonly occurs as the result of a blood clot in the deep veins of the legs, a disease known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). CVI also results from pelvic tumors and vascular malformations, and sometimes occurs for unknown reasons.
What are the signs of a DVT in the leg?
Symptoms of DVT in the leg are:
- throbbing or cramping pain in 1 leg (rarely both legs), usually in the calf or thigh.
- swelling in 1 leg (rarely both legs)
- warm skin around the painful area.
- red or darkened skin around the painful area.
- swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them.
Can I live a normal life with venous insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency affects millions of Americans, but the good news is that people with this condition can find relief from pain, avoid the complications, and lead a normal life by making lifestyle changes that include: Exercising. Keeping your salt intake to a minimum. Drinking plenty of water.