Injury of the axillary artery after a proximal humeral fracture: a case report and overview of the literature

Abstract

A traumatic lesion of the axillary artery after a proximal humeral fracture is very uncommon. The clinical presentation can be very misleading and therefore it is mandatory to have a high index of suspicion and, as presented in this case report, to check the pulsations in different positions. Open repair remains the golden standard for most surgeons, but, in selected cases, an endovascular approach is feasible. The functional outcome is mostly determined by the associated trauma, especially the injury to the nervous structures.