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The popliteal artery [the popliteal artery is held by the retractor, and a genicular branch is indicated by the probe] is the deepest of these structures in the popliteal fossa. It gives five branches, called genicular arteries, which supply the knee joint and provide collateral circulation around the knee.
Before identifying the genicular arteries, examine the floor of the popliteal fossa. It is formed from the superior to inferior by the popliteal surfaces of the femur, posterior surface of the capsule of the knee joint, oblique popliteal ligament, and popliteal muscle .Links and References:
Grant's: 5.55 and 5.57;
Netter (1ed.): 486 and 487; (2ed.): 482 and 483;
Rohen/Yokochi: 457 and 458