gms | German Medical Science

Objectives: Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a rare condition in which the popliteal artery becomes compressed by overlying soft tissue structures at the posterior knee causing progressive claudication. Due to low incidence, this disorder and its surgical management is poorly described in the literature. This study presents institutional data surrounding treatment of PAES to further optimize care of this syndrome.

Methods: This retrospective study gathered demographic, surgical, and outcome data of all patients who presented to our institution with PAES. Patients were identified using CPT and ICD-9/10 codes. Summary statistics were calculated, with Pearson chi-squared and Student's Ttest used for subgroup analysis.

Results and conclusion: 540 patients with PAES were identified. On average, they were young (mean age: 20.6 years), mostly female (80%), and predominately white (87%). The vast majority were physically active, with 10 of the 40 patients being runners (25%). Medically, the cohort was otherwise healthy, with 77.5% reporting no comorbidities. Diagnosis was often delayed, with patients on average seeing 4.7 doctors over 2.0 years prior to arriving at our institution for care. In addition to popliteal artery release, the second most performed procedure was fasciotomy (80%). Postoperatively, there was significant long-term subjective improvement, with 97% of patients reporting they would repeat the operation and 67% reporting improved levels of activity.

PAES is a rare condition affecting the lower limb that requires a nuanced surgical approach. Documentation of surgical outcomes is limited in previous literature. From diagnosis to outcome, we hope to better inform surgeons of PAES so that these patients may receive the highest quality care.