The Importance of Patient Position when Defining Normal Versus Pathological Functionality in the Diagnosis of Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome with Duplex Ultrasound

Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a rare condition where musculoskeletal structures compress the popliteal artery (POPA) leading to vascular or neurogenic symptoms. Rapid detection and treatment can prevent progressive arterial damage, with early detection associated with favourable long term outcomes. 1 Noorani A. Walsh S.R. Cooper D.G. Varty K. Entrapment syndrome. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 2008; 37: 213-220 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (41) Google Scholar ,2 Igari K. Sugano N. Kudo T. Toyofuku T. Jibiki M. Ionue Y. et al. Surgical treatment for popliteal artery entrapment syndrome. Ann Vasc Dis. 2014; 7: 28-33 Crossref PubMed Google Scholar Early intervention for those diagnosed with functional PAES, caused by gastrocnemius muscle hypertrophy, has proven that 78% of athletes can return to competitive sport. 3 Lavingia K.S. Dua A. Rothenbery K.A. Fredericson M. Lee J.T. Surgical management of functional popliteal entrapment syndrome in athletes. J Vasc Surg. 2019; 70: 1555-1562 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (18) Google Scholar ,4 Deveze E. Bruneau A. Hersant J. Ammi M. Abraham P. Picquet J. Popliteal entrapment syndrome: diagnostic, surgical management, and short-term results of a ten-year experience. Ann Vasc Surg. 2023; 88: 139-144 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (4) Google Scholar