Transient Acute Leg Ischemia in a Professional Athlete Caused by Isolated Popliteal Artery Dissection Mimicking Popliteal Entrapment Syndrome

Exertional leg pain includes a broad range of conditions induced by different vascular, musculoskeletal, and neurological disorders. We report a case with isolated popliteal artery dissection as a cause of a transient acute lower limb ischemia. We report a patient with popliteal artery dissection which occurred during squatting exercise. After initial signs of transient acute limb ischemia, physical and ultrasound examination pointed to entrampment syndrome as a likely cause. However, digital subtraction angiography showed possible dissection of popliteal artery, which was confirmed intraoperatively. Popliteal artery was resected and reversed saphenous vein bypass was performed. Isolated popliteal artery dissection in professional athletes is a rare entity, which can be manifested with exertional leg pain. Clinical findings can sometimes be similar to those of popliteal entrapment syndrome. Clinical suspicion and timely patient referral to a vascular specialist are crucial for optimal treatment of this limb-threatening condition.