Which two vessels does the popliteal vein receive blood from?

The popliteal vein is a vital component of the venous system in the leg and is located in the popliteal fossa behind the knee. It serves as a continuation of the posterior tibial vein and collects blood from various sources in the lower leg. The correct answer identifies the lesser saphenous vein and the gastrocnemius veins as the vessels contributing blood to the popliteal vein.

The lesser saphenous vein is a superficial vein that runs along the back of the leg, collecting blood from the foot and lateral aspect of the lower leg. It empties into the popliteal vein, providing important venous drainage from these areas. The gastrocnemius veins, paired veins accompanying the gastrocnemius muscles, also drain blood from the calf and connect to the popliteal vein, further enriching its blood supply. Together, these veins facilitate effective venous return from the lower extremities to the heart.

Other options incorrectly suggest different vessels that do not anatomically drain into the popliteal vein. For instance, the popliteal artery and femoral vein do not drain into the popliteal vein; instead, the popliteal vein is a continuation from the femoral vein as it becomes