Persistent sciatic artery: a case report.

A persistent sciatic artery was an incidental finding in a 29-year-old man who was being investigated for severe varicose veins and venous ulceration. The authors review the embryology and literature pertaining to persistent sciatic artery. Because it has a propensity for aneurysm formation and thrombosis they recommend that elective surgery be considered for this condition. In young asymptomatic patients the condition of the anomalous artery should be monitored by ultrasonography until operative intervention is indicated. The operative procedure should consist of occlusion with a balloon catheter or ligation of the persistent artery following by femoropopliteal bypass.