Neurovascular traction injuries of the upper limb root

Eight cases of injury to the subclavian and axillary arteries are described. All were accompanied by injury to the brachial plexus. Arterial continuity was restored in all cases. Six young patients sustained high velocity injuries and they showed no neurological improvement. Two elderly patients with low velocity injuries recovered neurological function in the limb. Primary amputation should be considered when nerve damage is obviously very severe.