Vascular injuries in Sweden 1986-1990: the result of an enquiry

In order to review the management of vascular trauma in Sweden all surgical and orthopedic departments were asked to report retrospectively vascular injuries occurring between 1986 and 1990. There were 294 injuries reported from 55 departments. The majority (approximately 80%) of the injuries were confined to the extremities. In the arms the injuries of the vessels were mostly simple, whereas in the legs they were more complex and correct treatment demanded extensive experience in vascular surgery. No less than 20% of the injuries were iatrogenic and half of them required reconstructive surgery. 55% of the iatrogenic injuries occurred during angiological examinations and treatments. Complex vascular injuries are often combined with fractures and soft tissue damage and required close cooperation between vascular and orthopedic surgeons. Advanced angiological examinations and treatments should only be performed in hospitals with vascular surgery facilities.