Late Recognized Vascular Injury after High-energy Fracture of the Proximal Tibia: a Pitfall to Know in Current...

Failure to recognize associated soft-tissue injuries after high-energy proximal tibia fractures is not uncommon. Despite the progress in managing these complex injuries, a prompt diagnosis of associated arterial injuries still remains difficult. A high index of suspicion for arterial damages is nevertheless mandatory in these severe fractures. Treatment protocols have been developed to reduce the previously reported high rates of amputation and permit an optimal management of soft-tissue and an acceptable functional outcome. We report here a well-documented case of a severely displaced proximal tibia fracture that illustrates the problem of diagnosing and managing the associated vascular injuries.