Acute arterial injuries of the upper extremity

Abstract

Prompt recognition and immediate surgical repair is recommended in the management of acute arterial injuries to the upper extremity. This therapeutic concept is most urgent in injuries involving the larger proximal vessels where hemorrhage frequently threatens survival. Well established incisions and current vascular surgical technics preclude equivocation in the management of injuries in this location. Damage to peripheral arteries of the arm and forearm should also be repaired immediately in order to restore optimal circulation unless such emergency repair jeopardizes survival of the patient. Ligation can be performed in injuries in this location with minimal risk of amputation. Arteriography is helpful in establishing the diagnosis of arterial injury in equivocal cases and will reduce the number of negative explorations. Careful attention must be paid to the total problem of trauma in patients with acute arterial injury of the upper extremity since associated damage to nerves and tendons is the determining factor in restoration of function and rehabilitation of the patient.