Venography in penetrating injuries of the extremities

Of 30 consecutive cases of penetrating injuries to the extremities studied both by arteriography and venography, five were found to have significant venous injuries. Three of these cases are presented to show the value of venography in detecting inadequate venous collateral circulation, intraluminal thrombus, and venous obstruction. It is suggested that preoperative venography will compliment arteriography, aid in the diagnosis of venous injuries, demonstrate variable venous anatomy, and outline other venous pathology outside of the area of trauma.