VASCULAR INSUFFICIENCY COMPLICATING TRAUMA TO THE LOWER LIMB

Abstract

I. Five cases of fracture and dislocation in the lower limb complicated by vascular injury are described and discussed.

2. Suspicion of arterial injury is an urgent indication for exploration. Conservative measures must not be undertaken without radiological evidence of an undamaged main limb artery.

3. The eventual outcome of arterial reconstruction cannot be forecast, but it is always worth while attempting unless the limb is obviously beyond hope of survival.