Introduction:

popliteal artery entrapment syndrome is infrequent, which occurs in most cases due to compression of the gastrocnemius or popliteal muscle on the artery. It can present asymptomatic, with claudication, or compromise of the viability of the limb. The diagnosis is based on imaging studies at rest and with maneuvers that cause the contraction of the gastrocnemius muscle. Surgical treatment is the most used.

Case report:

the case of a 62-year-old man is presented, without significant risk factors, physically active, with decrease in the distal pulses of the lower right limb. Angio-tomography and angio-MRI show an entrapment of the right popliteal artery, with its occlusion and with recanalization of infrapopliteal vessels through a genicular that originated proximal to the lesion and acted as a natural bridge, without any clinical repercussion. The adaptive mechanisms of the patient were considered to have ensured adequate distal perfusion through a bypass through collateral arteries.

Discussion:

in anatomically caused popliteal entrapment, adequate distal blood flow must be ensured. This can occur naturally through collateral circulation or by creating bridges through surgery.

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