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Arterial injuries associated with complete dislocation of the knee
1Department of Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322.
Radiology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Complete knee dislocation can cause arterial injuries, with absent pedal pulses strongly indicating popliteal artery occlusion. Even with normal pulses, arterial damage is possible, necessitating careful evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Trauma Care
Background:
- Complete knee dislocation is a significant orthopedic emergency.
- Arterial injury is a known complication, but its frequency and predictive factors require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and nature of arterial injuries in complete knee dislocations.
- To correlate physical examination findings, specifically peripheral pulses, with arteriographic results.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective computerized search identified patients with complete knee dislocation at an urban trauma hospital.
- Arteriography was performed to assess arterial integrity.
- Physical examination findings, including pedal pulses, were correlated with arteriographic outcomes.
Main Results:
- Arterial injuries were identified in 32% of patients with complete knee dislocation.
- Absence of pedal pulses was highly predictive of arterial injury, with 3 of 4 patients showing popliteal artery occlusion.
- 13% of patients with present pedal pulses had non-occluding intimal defects, which resolved without surgery.
Conclusions:
- Abnormal peripheral pulses are a strong indicator of major arterial injury in complete knee dislocations.
- A low but definite risk of arterial damage exists even when peripheral pulses are normal, warranting further investigation.