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Whilst there is no data available regarding the number of arterial injuries in the UK, it is agreed by most specialists that these injuries are not very common. Unfortunately these injuries are very serious and in many cases can lead to a loss of limb or life. The majority of arterial injuries in the UK are probably due to road traffic accidents. Other causes include sports and work related injuries.
Arterial injuries can be in the form of partial or complete division of the affected artery. When an arterial wall is breached, bleeding can be very severe and life threatening. Arterial injury can also be in the form of bruising or crushing. In this type of injury, the arterial lining becomes damaged leading to rapid clotting of the blood inside. The problem here is not blood loss but acute ischaemia.
The most important aspect in the treatment of arterial injuries is early recognition and intervention. Immediately following an injury, external bleeding from an injured artery in the limbs or the neck can be stopped with relative ease by direct compression. This compression must be maintained whilst the patient is being transferred to hospital.
Surgery is usually aimed at repairing the damaged segment and restoring the circulation. If the damage is extensive, a localised bypass may be required. If the damage to the artery and tissues is too severe as sometimes seen in crush injuries, an amputation may be necessary to save the patient's life. |
Popliteal artery injury secondary to a fractured femur. The angiogram shows occlusion of the artery well short of the injury site. This is not uncommon as the blood tends to clot within damaged vessels. |
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