Delayed presentation of axillary artery injury in proximal humeral fracture dislocation

Abstract
Vascular compromise in association with proximal humeral skeletal trauma is rare. Nonetheless, it has the potential for adverse outcome in the form of limb ischemia and loss. Prompt recognition of the insult may not only prevent a disaster but also salvage an extremity. A palpable radial and ulnar pulse is assumed to suggest a normal vascular status but as this illustrative case report shows is not always true. Delayed presentation of vascular insult is even more difficult to diagnose unless diligently searched for. Once appreciated, a prompt vascular intervention can salvage a difficult situation.

Source: European Orthopaedics and Traumatology - March 6, 2015 Category: Orthopaedics Source Type: research