[Arterial involvement in elbow-proximal injuries].

Nine cases of distal brachial artery injury were discussed. We refer to case No. 7 in which a complete dorsal displacement of the artery occurred through the fracture-line of the epicondyle. Trauma caused dislocation, laceration, or spasm of the artery, with or without intravascular thrombosis. Vascular spasm should not be diagnosed unless an arteriogram is available. If not done preoperatively, it can be done during operation. In this case inspection of the vessel during operation seems essential. Venous interposition is satisfactory for bridging defects of the distal brachial artery even in the elbow region.