LAUSR

BACKGROUND Detailed knowledge of the popliteal artery division and possible anatomical variants is of paramount importance for vascular surgery. AIM The aim of the current study was to highlight a rare unilateral case of posterior tibial artery hypoplasia. MATERIALS AND METHODS A dissection was performed at the posterior surface of the tibia in a 78-year-old Caucasian male cadaver of Greek origin. RESULTS The findings were consistent with unilateral posterior tibial artery hypoplasia and fibular artery enlargement. The variant fibular artery supplied the posterior surface of the distal leg and foot. Clinical implications of the fibular artery dominance are discussed. CONCLUSIONS Rare anatomical variants of the tibial artery are of clinical significance to maximize safety and minimize intraoperative complications.