[Early and late results of treating peripheral arterial injuries]

Forty six patients with injuries to the great peripheral arteries were treated at the III Department of Surgery, Medical Academy in Cracow in 1968-1987. An injury to the blood vessels was accompanied by bone fractures or joint dislocation in 9 (19.5%) patients whereas 35 (76%) patients suffered also from vein injuries and nervous trunks trauma. In 13 (28%) cases an accident took place when the victims were drunk. Favourable result of the treatment, i.e. return of peripheral pulse, was achieved in 33 (75%) patients, acceptable result, i.e. an increase in limb temperature, in 11 (23%) patients. Two patients underwent an amputation of the limb because of its necrosis. One patient died. Anti-thrombolytic agents were given intra- and postoperatively, and in 9 patients with extensive contusions fasciotomy proved successful. Late results were similar to early ones.