What is the Optimal Treatment Protocol for Traumatic Popliteal Artery Injury? A Comparative Study between Two...

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Popliteal artery injury is a rare but severe complication of knee trauma.
• Delayed diagnosis or inadequate management can lead to limb ischemia, amputation, and long-term disability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare treatment outcomes for popliteal artery injuries across different medical centers.
• To evaluate and refine the optimal treatment protocol for popliteal artery injuries.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of medical records for patients with traumatic popliteal artery injury from 2011-2022 at two institutions.
• Data collected included demographics, radiological assessment, treatment timelines, clinical outcomes, and follow-up periods.

Main Results:

• Group A (with TVS) had significantly shorter reperfusion times (300 min vs. 749 min) compared to Group B (without TVS).
• Group A demonstrated higher mean Lysholm scores (80.4 vs. 72.0).
• Amputation rates were similar (one patient in each group), but TVS use correlated with reduced reperfusion time.

Conclusions:

• Temporary vascular shunting (TVS) is effective in reducing reperfusion time for popliteal artery injuries.
• Careful consideration of treatment options and sequences is essential.
• Early diagnosis, prompt intervention, and comprehensive management improve patient outcomes.