Peripheral vascular injuries associated with falls from heights

Ronald A. White, Larry A. Scher, Russell H. Samson, Frank J. Veith

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

Peripheral vascular injuries associated with falls from heights are uncommon. We report our 15-year experience with ten such injuries in 230 patients who jumped or fell from heights of at least 3 stories. These injuries occurred in seven patients and included four popliteal artery thromboses or disruptions, two popliteal vein disruptions, one traumatic tibial arteriovenous fistula, one subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm, one radial artery transection, and one lacerated medial circumflex artery. Although the mechanism of injury is multifactorial, all were associated with significant orthopedic trauma. Early recognition of vascular injuries, minimization of ischemic time, completion arteriography, venous repair, and liberal use of fasciotomy are emphasized to maximize limb salvage.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)411-414
Number of pages4
JournalJournal of Trauma - Injury, Infection and Critical Care
Volume27
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 1987

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine

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