[Functional results following complicated injuries of the extremities--how can they be improved?]

Abstract

This study evaluates the critical points in the management of 48 patients with injured arteries of the lower limb between 1980 and 1986. 77% of the traumas were resultant from blunt vehicular traffic mishaps. 13 patients were treated within 6 h, 8 patients later than 6 h, 21 patients later than 24 h post injury. Delays in diagnosis occurred due to lack of or no indication for vascular trauma. Careful physical examination and aggressive use of angiography is essential in improving limb salvage rates, while doppler investigation may lead to improper diagnosis. Overall limb salvage was 69%, however, no reconstruction was possible in 6 cases (13%). 38 of the 42 arterial reconstructions required interposition of venous bypass grafts, four end to end anastomoses. Eleven patients had associated venous injuries, which in nine cases were repaired. Venous ligation in three cases was attributed with increased complication. In three cases ischemia time was shortened by the use of temporary javid shunts for rapid restoration of arterial flow. 50% of the patients were found to require fasciotomy, either pre- or postvascular repair. Early fasciotomy, however was found to be most beneficial. Fractures were treated in 15 cases with the external fixator, in 21 cases with internal fixation. Delayed revascularization after 24 h combined with aggressive debriding of muscle necrosis and the employment of vascularized muscular and skin flaps resulted in a decline in amputation rates and improved functional results.