Which vessel is the first branch off the distal popliteal artery?

The first branch off the distal popliteal artery is the anterior tibial artery. This branch is crucial as it supplies blood to the anterior compartment of the leg, which includes muscles like the tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, and others that are involved in dorsiflexion and toe extension.

The anterior tibial artery continues down the leg, eventually becoming the dorsalis pedis artery as it crosses the ankle. This pathway is essential for understanding vascular supply to the lower limb, particularly for assessing conditions like claudication or ischemia.

The posterior tibial artery and the peroneal artery, while also significant branches of the popliteal artery, arise after the anterior tibial artery and are responsible for supplying the posterior and lateral compartments of the leg, respectively. The dorsalis pedis artery is a continuation of the anterior tibial artery and therefore does not originate directly from the popliteal artery. Understanding the order and function of these vessels is important for accurately diagnosing vascular conditions and performing relevant ultrasound assessments.