Cystic degeneration of the popliteal artery

Abstract

Cystic degeneration of the popliteal artery is a rare condition, some forty cases having been described in the world literature. Another case is described here and the pathology, etiology and management are discussed. Typically the lesion affects the popliteal artery of young males; very rarely it occurs in other arteries and in women and children. The usual presenting symptom is intermittent claudication, of gradual or sudden onset, in one leg and often accompanied by a cold white foot. Conservative surgical treatment by dissection of the cyst from the artery or opening the cyst and removal of the gel may restore blood flow and normal pulsation. Where complete occlusion is present, a better result is likely if the affected segment is resected with autogenous vein graft replacement.