Surgical Management of Peripheral Vascular Injuries

Abstract

Trauma has become a global public health problem; the incidence is unknown. Vascular trauma is a very important component of this problem. The diagnosis of vascular injuries on extremities is made by physical examination, however, injuries to thoracic and abdominal vessels may require further study if the patient is stable. Most vascular injuries result from penetrating trauma, mainly involving the extremities. The management of these patients should be bleeding control rather than the blood flow maintenance. Vascular surgeons must restore vascular continuity in a timely manner to balance the functional outcome in order to anticipate possible complications. Currently, many patients with vascular trauma can be managed endovascularly. Peripheral vessel injuries are potentially lethal if not recognized or treated immediately.