[Neurovascular complications in fractures of the extremities, part 1 : Vascular lesions]

Neurovascular injuries in fractures threaten at least the function of extremities. The timely interaction between diagnosis and treatment of vascular injuries helps to avoid a poor outcome or even fatal complications. An important parameter is to "think about it" for injuries under strain. An ankle-brachial index (ABI) of <0.9 is an indicator. Massive bleeding, manifest and long-lasting peripheral ischemia and a rapidly expanding hematoma necessitate an immediate surgical intervention. Endovascular techniques are recommended on the extremities of stable patients with circumscribed vascular lesions. The debate about the sequence of repair (vascular vs. osseous) has to be decided on an individual basis; however, when in doubt vascular repair should be given priority. Vessel reconstructions should be performed without tension and must be covered by vital soft tissues, the indications for fasciotomy should be liberally interpreted. The prognosis with respect to preservation of the extremity and long-term functional outcome substantially depends on the quality of treatment of accompanying injuries.