Endovascular treatment for closed articular artery injuries

Abstract

Objective To explore the efficacy of endovascular treatment for closed articular artery injuries. Methods The clinical data of 13 patients from Jan 2010 to Dec 2014 treated for closed articular artery injuries were analyzed retrospectively. The location, severity and extent of arterial injury were confirmed by intraoperative arteriography. The diameter and length of the injured arteries were measured. The guidewire was sent to the lesion site and working wire pathway was established. When the guidewire was difficult to pass through the lesion site, femoral and posterior tibial or radial artery may be used to establish working wire pathway. The stent or stent-graft was implanted through the contralateral femoral artery or distal end of ipsilateral artery. Results Intraoperative angiography confirmed intimal injury (n=2), partial transection (n=5), complete transection (n=5) and arteriovenous fistula (n=1). Eighteen stents or stent-grafts were implanted. Treatment was successful in all patients without peiropeartive death and procedure-related complications. All were followed up for 15 to 48 months and the mean follow-up was (30±11) months. Three patients with stent lumen stenosis less than 50% as showed by angiography. There was no stent fracture, displacement, or deformation. Conclusions Endovascular treatment for closed articular artery injuries is of less invasion, shorter operative time and quick postoperative recovery. Key words: Wounds and injuries; Angioplasty; Arteries; Joints; Stents