Axillary Artery Injury Associated with Dislocated or Displaced Proximal Humeral Fracture: A Report of 3 Cases.

CASE: (1) A 69-year-old man sustained a proximal humeral fracture-dislocation. During emergency surgery, copious bleeding occurred. A pseudoaneurysm was identified 30 days postoperatively. (2) A 69-year-old man sustained a proximal humeral fracture and axillary artery injury. Physical examination demonstrated a cold but pink hand. Hemiarthroplasty and bypass vein grafting were performed. (3) An 86-year-old woman sustained a proximal humeral fracture and axillary artery injury. Her hand had turned cold and pale. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty and bypass vein grafting were performed.

CONCLUSION

In cases of proximal humeral fractures with significant displacement, concomitant axillary artery injury must be assessed and if there is a high index of suspicion, prompt advanced imaging is necessary.