Which artery branches into the anterior tibial artery and posterior tibial artery?

The correct answer is the popliteal artery because it is the main vessel that bifurcates into the anterior and posterior tibial arteries. The popliteal artery is located at the back of the knee and is a continuation of the femoral artery, which traverses through the popliteal fossa. Once it reaches the level of the knee joint, it divides into the anterior tibial artery, which supplies blood to the anterior compartment of the leg, and the posterior tibial artery, which supplies the posterior compartment and also gives rise to the fibular artery.

Understanding the anatomy of these arteries is crucial in interventional radiology and vascular medicine because they are commonly involved in various procedures, including angiography and interventions for peripheral artery disease. The anterior tibial artery further continues down to become the dorsalis pedis artery at the ankle, while the posterior tibial artery eventually forms the plantar arteries, supplying the foot. This bifurcation is significant in assessing blood flow and planning treatment approaches for vascular conditions affecting the lower extremities.