Brachial artery transection associated with open elbow dislocation in a 12-year-old: a case report

Vascular. 2013 Feb;21(1):27-30. doi: 10.1258/vasc.2011.cr0282. Epub 2011 Oct 6.

Abstract

Although acute elbow dislocations are common orthopedic injuries, concomitant neurovascular injury is rare. Brachial artery transection can result from open elbow dislocation and responds well to vascular repair. Rapid evaluation and a high level of suspicion are essential to facilitate immediate treatment. Delay to identify vascular injury after elbow dislocation or reduction can potentially lead to limb ischemia, and potential loss of limb. We present a case of relatively rare transection of the brachial artery, with an accompanying traumatic open elbow dislocation in a 12-year-old boy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anastomosis, Surgical
  • Brachial Artery / diagnostic imaging
  • Brachial Artery / injuries*
  • Brachial Artery / surgery
  • Child
  • Elbow Injuries*
  • Elbow Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Elbow Joint / physiopathology
  • Elbow Joint / surgery
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / diagnosis
  • Joint Dislocations / etiology*
  • Joint Dislocations / physiopathology
  • Joint Dislocations / surgery
  • Male
  • Multiple Trauma*
  • Orthopedic Procedures
  • Radiography
  • Recovery of Function
  • Saphenous Vein / transplantation
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vascular System Injuries / diagnosis
  • Vascular System Injuries / etiology*
  • Vascular System Injuries / surgery