Complete popliteal artery rupture one month after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy

Abstract A patient suffered a complete popliteal artery injury one month after a partial arthroscopic meniscectomy. The patient complained of progressive and severe distal pain. A complete lesion of the popliteal artery was found. Distal vascular flow was barely supported by two geniculate arteries. Vascular repair was performed using open vascular surgery. Although the popliteal neurovascular bundle is close to the posterior capsule of the knee and is obviously potentially vulnerable, injuries in arthroscopy of the knee are very rare. To avoid catastrophic consequences, the possibility of vascular injuries following arthroscopy of the knee, even several weeks after the surgery must not be ruled out.