[Diagnostic approach to popliteal venous aneurysm]

Venous aneurysms are rare vascular abnormalities and are often described in patients presenting with pulmonary embolism. The occasional real time ultrasound examination of an aneurysm of venous system in the popliteal fossa has focalized our interest in the diagnostic approach of this entity. In our experience and in the literature the physical examination is usually negative while the ultrasound gives high quality imaging combined to a Doppler evaluation, so this kind of diagnostic tool is desirable as a first approach. Both morphology and flow hemodynamics can be detected in a non invasive way. About wall aspect and surrounding tissue is underlined the MRT and CT scanning, the thrombotic extension is well inspected. The venography is the definitive study and should always be performed because it is the most reliable examination and specific until the sac of aneurysm is filled from the contrast. However this diagnostic modality is useful in the patient undergoing surgical repair.