Angiographic embolisation in arterial trauma.

OBJECTIVES

to evaluate the use of endovascular occlusion in the treatment of arterial trauma.

METHODS

records of patients with penetrating arterial injuries treated by endovascular occlusive techniques were culled from the computerised database of the vascular service.

RESULTS

the study period spanned 7 years. Forty-two patients were studied with injuries to the cervicofacial vessels (24), lower limb (16) and upper limb (1). 13 had an arteriovenous fistula. There were 4 failures. In 2 cannulation was not achieved and in 2 with A-VF distal vessel occlusion was impossible. Two patients developed complications. In the remainder, treatment was effective and durable.

CONCLUSION

this treatment modality is effective and safe in the treatment of penetrating trauma in selected patients.