The pulse point located behind the knee is palpated over which artery?
A.
Femoral
B.
Posterior tibial
C.
Popliteal
D.
Dorsalis pedis
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. Popliteal.
The pulse point located behind the knee is palpated over the popliteal artery. The popliteal artery is a continuation of the femoral artery and travels through the popliteal fossa, which is the hollow at the back of the knee. This artery is crucial for supplying blood to the lower leg and foot.
Anatomy and Palpation:
To locate the popliteal pulse, the patient should be positioned in a way that allows the knee to be slightly flexed, as this position brings the popliteal artery closer to the surface. The examiner uses their fingers to press deeply in the popliteal fossa, just above the knee joint, to feel the pulse. This area can be somewhat challenging to palpate due to its deep location and the surrounding structures such as muscles, tendons, and fat.
Clinical Significance:
Palpation of the popliteal pulse is an important part of a physical examination, especially in assessing peripheral circulation. A diminished or absent popliteal pulse can indicate issues such as arterial occlusion or peripheral artery disease (PAD). For example, in conditions like PAD, the arteries may become narrowed or blocked, which can reduce or obstruct blood flow and, consequently, pulse detection.
Other Arteries Mentioned:
- A. Femoral artery: This artery is located in the groin area and supplies blood to the lower limb. The femoral pulse is palpated in the groin, not behind the knee.
- B. Posterior tibial artery: This artery is located behind the medial malleolus (the bony prominence on the inside of the ankle). It supplies blood to the foot and can be palpated near the ankle.
- D. Dorsalis pedis artery: This artery runs along the top of the foot. It is palpated on the dorsum of the foot and is involved in blood supply to the toes and foot.
In summary, the popliteal artery is specifically responsible for the pulse palpated behind the knee, making option C the correct answer.