Vascular Trauma Surgery

Overview

Injuries to arteries and veins from accidents, stabbings or gunshots can cause life-threatening bleeding or loss of a limb. Prompt repair is essential.

Why it is done

• Severe bleeding after injury
• A cold, pale limb after trauma
• Injuries near major blood vessels
• Fractures with blood vessel damage

Before the surgery

Bleeding is controlled and the patient is resuscitated. Scans may be done if time allows.

During and after the surgery

The vessel is repaired directly, with a patch or with a graft. The limb is monitored closely after surgery.

Risks

Risks include bleeding, infection, blockage of the repair and, rarely, limb loss.

At KIH

KIH's emergency and vascular surgery teams treat blood vessel injuries.