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Occlusive vascular disorders of the upper extremity
1Raymond M. Curtis Hand Center, Union Memorial Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland.
Hand Clinics
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Upper extremity occlusive disease often stems from ulnar artery injury or atherosclerosis. Emboli, connective tissue disorders, and thoracic outlet syndrome are other potential causes requiring specific diagnostic considerations.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Upper extremity occlusive disease presents diverse etiologies.
- Posttraumatic ulnar artery occlusion is a common cause.
- Embolic events, connective tissue disorders, and atherosclerosis contribute to ischemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate the various causes of arterial and venous occlusive disease in the upper extremity.
- To highlight diagnostic considerations for each etiology.
- To provide a comprehensive overview for clinicians.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on upper extremity vascular occlusive disease.
- Analysis of common and uncommon etiologies.
- Correlation of clinical presentation with underlying pathology.
Main Results:
- Posttraumatic ulnar artery occlusion is the most frequent cause of arterial occlusion.
- Atrial fibrillation and myocardial infarction suggest embolic sources.
- Subclavian artery atherosclerosis can cause subclavian steal syndrome or arm ischemia.
- Venous occlusive disease is linked to hypercoagulable states, endothelial injury, or thoracic outlet syndrome.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of upper extremity occlusive disease relies on identifying the specific cause.
- A thorough vascular examination and appropriate investigations are crucial.
- Understanding the diverse etiologies guides effective management strategies.