Circumflex Fibular Artery, Gross Anatomy

Description

Prominent in this male lower-limb vascular plate, the circumflex fibular artery is traced as it curves around the proximal fibula, passing from the lateral compartment toward the posterolateral aspect of the knee near the head and neck of the fibula. Nearby, the fibular (peroneal) artery is shown distally in the posterior compartment, while the popliteal artery lies posterior to the knee joint and gives rise to the anterior tibial and posterior tibial arteries below the popliteus. Superficial veins appear in blue along the medial and lateral leg, with deeper venae comitantes accompanying the named arteries. Bony landmarks, including the fibula and tibia, sit deep to the semi-transparent soft tissues. Course around the fibular neck matters because this region concentrates neurovascular structures and surgical landmarks. The circumflex fibular artery participates in periarticular genicular anastomoses and can contribute to collateral flow when the popliteal segment is compromised, a common consideration in peripheral arterial disease and after knee dislocation. It is also a vessel to respect during lateral approaches to the proximal fibula and fibular head procedures, where the nearby common fibular (peroneal) nerve is at risk and vascular injury can complicate exposure. Use this illustration in gross anatomy teaching on lower-limb vasculature, in orthopedic or vascular surgery education when reviewing knee-level collateral circulation, or in medical publishing to accompany discussions of popliteal artery injury and reconstructive flap planning based on fibular system branches. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.