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Vascular trauma to the lower extremity: the Lebanese war experience
R E Sfeir1, G S Khoury, M K Kenaan
1Department of Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Lebanon.
Cardiovascular Surgery (London, England)
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Vascular injuries to lower extremities require prompt surgical repair to improve limb salvage rates. Timely intervention significantly reduces amputation risk, especially for popliteal and femoral injuries.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Lower extremity vascular injuries present significant challenges in trauma care.
- Effective management is crucial for limb salvage and patient survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review outcomes of surgical repair for lower extremity vascular injuries.
- To identify factors influencing amputation rates and mortality.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 386 patients with lower extremity vascular injuries.
- Analysis of injury types (popliteal, femoral, tibial), treatment, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Overall mortality was 2.33%; amputation rate was 5.95%.
- Popliteal injuries had higher amputation rates (11.86%) compared to femoral (3.17%) and tibial (6.25%).
- Delayed repair (>6h), femoral fractures, and shock increased amputation risk.
Conclusions:
- Prompt surgical repair, including venous repair and fasciotomy, improves limb salvage.
- Addressing associated fractures and patient's hemodynamic status is vital for better outcomes.