The popliteal artery divides into its terminal branches at the inferior border of the popliteus muscle. Which is the larger terminal branch and at what anatomical landmark does it divide?

• A Anterior tibial artery is the larger branch; popliteal artery divides at the fibular neck
• B Posterior tibial artery is the larger branch; popliteal artery divides at the lower border of popliteus ✓
• C Peroneal (fibular) artery is the largest branch; arises directly from the popliteal artery
• D Both branches are equal in caliber; the division occurs at the tibial tuberosity

Explanation

The popliteal artery, the direct continuation of the femoral artery below the adductor hiatus, divides at the lower border of popliteus (approximately at the level of the tibial tuberosity) into the anterior tibial artery (which passes above the interosseous membrane to the anterior compartment) and the posterior tibial artery (larger, continues in the posterior compartment). The peroneal (fibular) artery arises as a branch of the posterior tibial artery (not directly from the popliteal). Clinically, popliteal aneurysm is the most common peripheral artery aneurysm and can cause distal limb ischemia.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

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