Functional popliteal artery entrapment syndrome in an athletic adolescent: a case report and surgical insights

Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a rare but significant cause of lower limb claudication in young, otherwise healthy individuals. This case describes a 16-year-old athletic patient presenting with bilateral calf pain, initially evaluated by cardiology. While initial arterial Doppler ultrasound was unremarkable, calf contraction elicited a complete interruption of arterial flow. Angio-CT confirmed dynamic compression of the popliteal artery, consistent with functional popliteal entrapment syndrome. Surgical intervention was performed, involving resection of the medial gastrocnemius muscle and tendon release. The patient experienced full symptom resolution postoperatively. This report highlights the importance of considering PAES in the differential diagnosis of claudication in young patients, underscores the role of dynamic imaging and surgical management, and addresses postoperative recurrence risk.