popliteal vein

anatomy

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Last updated

July 2, 2026

Quick Summary

The popliteal vein is a deep vein located in the back of the knee. It is formed by the joining of the anterior and posterior tibial veins. The popliteal vein then continues upward to become the femoral vein as it extends through the thigh. This vein plays a crucial role in returning blood from the lower leg to the heart.1

Diseases affecting veins, such as thrombophlebitis (clot formation with inflammation), can occur in the popliteal vein, often leading to complications like pulmonary embolism.2

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human cardiovascular system
Inferior vena cava and its tributaries
…to terminate usually in the popliteal vein. There is some interconnection with deep veins and with the great saphenous vein. The latter vein, the longest in the body, extends from the dorsal venous arch up the inside of the lower leg and thigh, receiving venous branches from the knee and…
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…to terminate usually in the popliteal vein. There is some interconnection with deep veins and with the great saphenous vein. The latter vein, the longest in the body, extends from the dorsal venous arch up the inside of the lower leg and thigh, receiving venous branches from the knee and…
Read More