Variations in popliteal fossa venous anatomy: implications for diagnosis of deep-vein thrombosis

BACKGROUND: To retrospectively review the bilateral venous system within the popliteal fossa to evaluate the types of variations and their frequency seen in venous anatomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: During routine dissection of formalin-fixed cadavers, a retrospective review of 32 bilateral (64 limbs) lower limbs obtained from adult donors was performed. Deep veins present in the popliteal fossa were evaluated according to predetermined criteria for the presence of duplication of vessels and interindividual variations in venous anatomy. RESULTS: More than one deep venous vessel was seen in the popliteal fossa in 20 (31.3%) of 64 limbs. In 12 (18.7%) cases there was a high (just below the level of the adductor hiatus) origin of the popliteal vein: from 2 tributaries in 10 (15.6%) and 3 tributaries in 2 (3.1%). In 5 (7.8%) cases true duplicated popliteal veins were observed. There were also 3 (4.7%) cases, including one bilateral, of persistent sciatic vein. CONCLUSIONS: Variations in popliteal fossa venous anatomy are common and have important implications for the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis.