The popliteal artery is a continuation of the femoral artery at the adductor hiatus.
It appears in the popliteal fossa on the upper medial side under the margin of the semimembranosus muscle.
It passes inferolaterally through the fossa and is the deepest structure in the popliteal fossa.
The artery runs in close proximity to the joint capsule of the knee as it spans the intercondylar fossa.
It continues into the deep part of the posterior compartment of the leg, passing between the two heads of the gastrocnemius and popliteal muscle.
The popliteal artery ends at the lower border of popliteus by dividing into the anterior tibial artery and posterior tibial artery.
The artery's anterior relation is the floor of the popliteal fossa, posterior aspect of the knee joint, and fascia covering the popliteus muscle.
The popliteal vein, tibial nerve, fascial roof, superficial fascia, and skin are the artery's posterior relation (from deep to superficial).

Test your knowledge on the anatomy of the popliteal artery with this quiz! From its origin to its branching, this quiz covers all the essential facts you need to know. Challenge yourself to identify its relations, its path through the popliteal fossa, and its course through the leg. Sharpen your anatomy skills and become an expert on this vital blood vessel.