Management of upper limb arterial injury without angiography--Chennai experience

Injury. 2004 Jan;35(1):61-4. doi: 10.1016/s0020-1383(03)00237-7.

Abstract

We present our experience and observations in the management of upper limb arterial injury in a tertiary trauma care centre of a University Hospital in a developing country from January 2000 to January 2002. In this retrospective study, we had treated 27 patients (identified from trauma register) with upper extremity vascular injuries. Clinical examination and Doppler pressure studies were our prime modalities of investigation. Angiography was not employed. Our immediate limb salvage rate was 100%. Two patients developed complications during a mean follow up of 70 days with one requiring amputation. We thereby emphasise the fact that good results can be obtained by thorough clinical examination and Doppler evaluation and prompt surgery without the need for angiography in upper limb vascular trauma.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Angiography
  • Arm / blood supply*
  • Arm Injuries / surgery*
  • Arteries / injuries
  • Developing Countries*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • India
  • Limb Salvage / methods
  • Male
  • Preoperative Care / methods
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Vascular Surgical Procedures / methods*