The authors report a case of lesion of the popliteal artery associated with a fracture involving separation of the upper end of the tibia in a child following a serious accident. This lesion was treated by resection-vein graft after reduction of the fracture and immobilisation by two pins. In the light of this case, the authors undertake a review of the world literature, then assess the mechanism and the bone and vascular lesions, the various pathological classifications and the aetiologies. Finally, they emphasize the difficulty in diagnosing the bone lesion and, above all, the vascular lesion. Arteriography is indicated where there is the slightest doubt.