The management of subclavian artery injuries following blunt thoracic trauma

Abstract

The records of 15 patients who sustained blunt rupture of the subclavian artery were reviewed. The findings on physical examination included arterial hypotension, unilateral absence of the radial pulse, brachial plexus palsy, and supraclavicular hematoma. The chest roentgenographic findings included wide mediastinums, apical pleural hematomas, and first rib fractures. Fourteen patients survived to undergo angiography and operation. Arterial continuity was restored by primary anastomosis, synthetic grafts, and venous interposition grafts. Ligation of a pseudoaneurysm was carried out in 1 patient with a complete brachial plexus palsy. Amputation of an upper extremity was required in 1 patient. Two patients died postoperatively. We conclude that blunt subclavian artery injuries may be suspected clinically. Absent upper extremity pulses, a wide mediastinum, unrelenting thoracic hemorrhage, and persistent hypotension dictate the necessity for aortography. Relative indications for angiography include brachial plexus palsy, apical pleural hematoma, and a fractured first rib.