The popliteal artery, running behind the knee, is a common site for both occlusive disease and aneurysm formation. Chronic total occlusion of the popliteal artery is one of the more challenging lesions in peripheral vascular intervention, often requiring advanced endovascular techniques to restore blood flow. Purpose-designed stent systems offering high flexibility and kink resistance are essential for durable results in this anatomically demanding location, where the vessel is subject to repetitive bending with every step.
At Perth Vascular Clinic, popliteal artery disease is managed with both endovascular and open surgical approaches, selected according to the anatomy and extent of disease. Endovascular options include angioplasty and stenting using devices specifically engineered for the popliteal segment. Open bypass surgery remains an important option for complex or long-segment disease. A thorough assessment of each patient’s individual anatomy guides the choice of treatment to achieve the best possible outcome.
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About the Author: Dr Marek Garbowski
Dr Marek Garbowski, MBBS, FRACS (Vasc), is a Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon and the founder of Perth Vascular Clinic, which he established in Subiaco in 2006.
He completed his MBBS in 1994 and trained across Australia and New Zealand before being awarded Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in Vascular Surgery in 2005. He performs both open vascular surgery and minimally invasive endovascular procedures, with particular interests in carotid stenting, complex aortic aneurysm repair, endovenous treatment of varicose veins and the management of leg and foot ulcers.
Dr Garbowski consults in Subiaco and Joondalup, heads the Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Department at Joondalup Health Campus, and teaches at UWA and Notre Dame.
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If you're in pain and can't seem to find any answers, read our guide and find out more.
Frequently Asked Questions
A chronic total occlusion (CTO) of the popliteal artery is a complete blockage of the artery behind the knee that has been present for an extended period. It causes severely reduced blood flow to the lower leg and foot, resulting in significant symptoms ranging from severe claudication to critical limb ischaemia.