Advancing Surgical Outcomes in Extremity Vascular Trauma: Insights from Clinical Experience

Authors : Atilla Orhan, Mücahit Tahsin Demirtaş

Pages : 174-180

Doi:10.54005/geneltip.1595501

View : 14 | Download : 28

Publication Date : 2025-02-28

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Abstract Background: Extremity trauma is a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality, comprising up to 70% of trauma admissions. Vascular injuries associated with extremity trauma pose significant challenges, as delays in diagnosis may lead to acute limb ischemia, compartment syndrome, and limb loss. Timely diagnosis and surgical intervention are essential for optimizing patient outcomes. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 85 patients with vascular extremity trauma treated at a tertiary care hospital from 2018 to 2023. Patients with isolated soft tissue injuries or chronic injuries were excluded. Data on demographics, injury mechanisms, clinical presentations, diagnostic imaging, surgical interventions, and outcomes were collected. Primary outcomes included limb salvage and mortality rates, while secondary outcomes evaluated complications and functional recovery. Results: The cohort had a mean age of 33.7 years, with a predominance of male patients (87.1%). Lower extremity injuries were the most common, with gunshot wounds as the leading cause (31.8%). Most (90.6%) presented within 6 hours of injury, and 55.3% exhibited hemodynamic instability. In 91.8% of cases, surgical intervention was required, predominantly involving interposition vein grafting and primary repairs. Limb salvage was achieved in 92.9% of patients, though 15.3% experienced complications, primarily ischemia and necrosis. The rate of iatrogenic trauma was significantly higher in hemodynamically stable patients (18.4% vs. 4.3%, p=0.007). Conclusion: Early surgical intervention in extremity trauma is crucial for high limb salvage rates and favorable outcomes. Despite a notable complication rate, timely management can mitigate adverse effects. Future studies should focus on improving long-term functional outcomes and developing comprehensive rehabilitation protocols tailored to extremity trauma patients.
Keywords : Ekstremite travmaları, Damar yaralanması, Ekstremite kurtarılması, Travma Yönetimi