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Arterial injury in uncomplicated upper extremity dislocations
S R Sparks1, J DeLaRosa, J J Bergan
1Section of Vascular Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA 92103-8401, USA.
Annals of Vascular Surgery
|April 1, 2000
Summary
Simple upper extremity dislocations can cause arterial injury in 0.74% of cases. This study analyzed vascular damage in shoulder and elbow dislocations, highlighting the need for surgical expertise in repair.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Trauma Care
Background:
- Dislocations of the shoulder and elbow are common orthopedic emergencies.
- Associated arterial injury is a rare but serious complication.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for limb salvage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence, mechanisms, and outcomes of arterial injury in patients with simple upper extremity dislocations.
- To analyze the types of arterial damage and surgical repair methods used.
- To evaluate the overall success of treatment in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Multicenter, 5-year retrospective analysis.
- Inclusion criteria: patients with shoulder or elbow dislocations without fractures.
- Data collection: injury mechanisms, preoperative imaging, reduction methods, arterial injury types, surgical repair, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Overall incidence of arterial injury was 0.74%.
- Axillary artery injury occurred in 0.97% and brachial artery injury in 0.47% of cases.
- Both shoulder and elbow dislocations were associated with significant arterial damage.
Conclusions:
- Simple dislocations of the upper extremity pose a risk of severe arterial injury.
- Successful surgical repair requires specialized expertise.
- Vigilance for vascular complications is essential in managing these injuries.