Popliteal aneurysm: the need for vigilance

Lower limb ischaemia, oedema or pain could be signs of popliteal aneurysm, which may warrant elective surgery. Symptoms could also include peroneal nerve or venous compressive disorders, 'white limb' or 'trash foot.' Palpitation is often sufficient to detect the aneurysm. These aneurysms are rare, with an incidence from 0.1 to 3%. Ten percent of patients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm also have a popliteal aneurysm.